Low prices make plastic a top choice

World Environment Day stresses the theme Ban Plastic Pollution, targeting one-time usage products made of plastic such as plastics cups, bottles, spoons, forks and straws among others. These items are mostly often found in eateries and have an adverse effect on one’s health.

Most of these items end up in the sea or landfills. Mr Anmol Roy, an environmentalist said, “Despite the invention of wooden spoons and even spoons that are edible after one’s meal, plastic is still the top most choice because of its disposability and the low cost. Unless the government bans items such as these, no action will be taken. Plastic bags are not the only items that are a bane on the environment but are the sole focus of officials.”

Medical experts state that the ill-effects of plastic, especially when plastic packaging comes in contact with hot food on one’s health, is immense.

Dr T. Unnikrishnan, a general physician, said, “As per recent medical studies, the leaching of plastic components and chemicals increases by 50 per cent if we add hot food or water into a bowl or glass. Even “microwave safe” containers leach chemicals.”

He said plastic that accumulates in the body over time cannot be removed. It can also be carcinogenic. “We should avoid plastic for our health just like for the environment.”