In many nations, plastic packaging has become increasingly popular and is used by various industries. While this new phenomenon can be cost-effective, it can be harmful to the environment and public health. I personally believe that the disadvantages of plastic containers outweigh its advantages.
A major advantage of plastic holders is their cost. Compared to glass or metal, plastic is generally more affordable and widely available, making it economically friendly for many people. Because of this feature, many households use them for various purposes in their daily lives, from stocking food in them to packing leftovers or carrying lunches. For instance, PETE is one of the most affordable plastics, which can be used for such items as bottled water, peanuts, and drinks. From this perspective, positive feedback regarding plastic packaging might appear reasonable.
However, this increased use of plastics has several substantial drawbacks, with environmental damage being the most significant one. Regrettably, the majority of plastics cannot be recycled or reused, and as a result, they end up staying in oceans or the environment. To illustrate, according to research conducted by WWF, only 9% of the total rubbish was recycled and the remaining proportion was left in oceans. This throwaway act exacerbated the pollution around the globe.
Furthermore, another major drawback of plastic packaging is its potential to release toxic chemicals into food. Many plastics are used to package food or fruits; however, if they are exposed to heat or acidic food, they may leak harmful chemicals into the food. This leads to health problems such as stomach pain and digestive problems, particularly among those with long-term exposure to plastic-packaged foods. For example, research by WHO revealed that over 20% of digestive problems were triggered by constant reliance on plastic containers that release harmful chemicals. Consequently, not only can plastic influence the environment but also human health.
In conclusion, although using plastic packages can be useful in terms of finance, I believe that disadvantages such as its negative impact on the environment and public health cannot be outweighed.