Question

(a) Collect different kinds of packaging material. What was the purpose for which each one was used? Discuss in groups.
(b) Give an example in which packaging could have been reduced.
(c) Write a story on how packaging increases the amount of garbage.

Answer 1

(a) Different kinds of packaging materials are as follows-

(i) Plastic bags for carrying eatables, groceries, garments, etc.
(ii) Jute or cotton cloth bags for carrying groceries, vegetables & fruits, etc.
(iii) Paper is a raw material used for making paper bags, card boxes & also for wrapping gift items and other stuff, etc.

(b) The packaging of food items in plastic bags can be reduced. Plastic is not good for health.

(c) Packaging materials are commonly used to protect the articles and also to make them look presentable. Gifts are generally packed and wrapped in shiny or plastic coated papers to make them attractive. After the gifts are opened, the wrapping papers are disposed of and added to the garbage. Similarly, plastic bags, cans, aluminum foils, plastic or aluminum cans, and other packaging materials are used and thrown after use. Nowadays, many day-to-day-use items like ghee, detergents, soaps, refined oil, etc. are sold in plastic packets. All these packaging materials, hence contribute to a significant percentage of garbage.