Hello, Earth Champions! 🌟 Do you know that plastic pollution is harming our planet? On World Environment Day 2025, people all around the world are saying, “Let’s Beat Plastic Pollution!” 🛑🧴
But how can we do that? Let’s look at how China and Africa are working together to make a difference! 🤝
Why is Plastic Pollution a Problem?
Plastic waste ends up in our rivers and oceans, hurting animals and even people! 🐟🌊 Tiny pieces called microplastics can get into fish that we might eat. Yikes! 😱
Ma Jun, the Founding Director of the Institute of Public and Environmental Affairs in China, says, “Microplastics have been found in ocean creatures and even in 30% of fish samples.”
Ali-Said Matano, a Senior Advisor for Blue Economy in Kenya, shared, “In Kenya, animals like cows have gotten sick or even died from eating plastic bags. And when we eat fish, those microplastics can come back to us.”
What Are They Doing About It?
In China, people are starting to ban single-use plastics like plastic bags and straws. They’re also sorting their waste better and making companies responsible for the plastic they produce. 🛍️🚫
In Kenya, they have one of the toughest bans on plastic bags! Now, they are using biodegradable (breaks down easily) packaging and finding better alternatives. 🌿
Working Together for a Cleaner World
Both Ma Jun and Ali-Said Matano believe that local action is super important. Cities like Shanghai are making progress by recycling and reusing materials. ♻️
They also think that China and African countries can learn from each other. For example, China’s Blue Map app helps track pollution. Maybe African countries can use similar tools! 📱
How Can You Help?
You can be a hero too! 💪
- Reduce the use of plastic. Say no to single-use plastics like straws and bags. 🛍️🚫
- Reuse items whenever you can. Use a reusable water bottle. 🚰
- Recycle properly. Make sure to put plastics in the right bin. ♻️
- Tell your friends and family about plastic pollution. Spread the word! 🗣️
Remember, every little action counts! Together, we can make our planet cleaner and healthier. 🌟🌿
Happy World Environment Day! 🌍💚
Reference(s):
World Environment Day: How China and Africa tackle plastic pollution
cgtn.com
