Global Plastic Waste Poses Severe Threat to Ecosystem and Food Security

ABU DHABI — Plastic waste is emerging as a critical threat to ecosystems worldwide, with profound impacts on soil, agriculture, and biodiversity, potentially undermining global food security. This issue is exacerbated by the extensive production of plastic, which is projected to reach 220 million tonnes globally in 2024.

According to Philippines News Agency, the massive production of plastic waste is causing extensive ecological damage. The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) highlighted the particular dangers posed by plastic waste to marine life, including ingestion by marine creatures and entanglement, as well as the formation of toxic chemicals from plastics that break down in seawater. These toxins enter the human food chain through contaminated seafood, posing health risks.

The EAD pointed out the challenges posed by single-use plastics such as bags, bottles, and utensils, which are major pollutants due to their long degradation periods. These plastics often break down into microplastics, tiny particles that not only contaminate the environment but also enter the human body through ingestion, skin contact, or inhalation. Despite their harmful impact, a complete ban on plastic products is not feasible due to the irreplaceable nature of many plastic items, though specific bans on plastic bags and certain styrofoam products are in effect.

In response to the plastic crisis, the EAD initiated several campaigns including the “Mission to Zero initiative for single-use plastic” in June 2022. This community-driven campaign aims to eliminate waste from single-use plastics and achieve zero carbon emissions without harming biodiversity. It encourages residents of Abu Dhabi to adopt sustainable practices, such as using reusable materials and minimizing waste.

Environmental expert Imad Saad stressed the paradox of plastics as indispensable yet destructive. He underscored the severe pollution challenges posed by non-biodegradable plastics, which have become a leading cause of death for terrestrial mammals and livestock in regions like the UAE. Citing data from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, Saad noted that 50 percent of camel deaths in the UAE are due to plastic bags.