Question

Why is there a need to ban the use of polythene bags?

Answer 1

Polythene bags:

A commonly used carry bag is made up of a polymer called polyethylene. They are cheap, easily available, and mostly single-use.

1. It is non-biodegradable and a major cause of pollution in our country.
2. It becomes a threat to the life of animals on land as well as on water.
3. It should be banned because it creates so many issues of environmental concern:
   1. The production of polythene bags from petroleum products can cause environmental pollution due to harmful chemicals released from industries.
   2. These bags if thrown into the soil can remain as such without degrading for many years and alter soil texture and make it infertile.
   3. It can cause suffocation and death if ingested by animals, especially street dogs and cows who accidentally eat them.
   4. An astonishing amount of these bags are present in oceans and sea which threaten the lives of marine organisms.
   5. They cannot be burned because the toxic fumes produced can cause serious diseases like cancer.
   6. Careless disposal of these bags can clog the drains and water supply.