Battle of the Bag
Terrell Hedley
09-20-2024
GEOG 125-201
Battle of the Bag
One local effect that I observed was its impact on urban drainage systems. Plastic bags tend to clog storm drains, leading to flooding during heavy rain and storms. I hadn’t really thought about the impact of plastic bags and garbage on drainage systems previously. The flooding and clogging of the drains is not only an environmental issue but also could be posed as a public safety concern as well. These flooded streets can cause property damage and disrupt transportation. Before I hadn’t considered this direct correlation between plastic bags and problems in the city before the video, however it is a serious issue that affects both the environment and everyday life in cities.
One approach that was compelling to me was related to managing the issue of plastic bags and clogging of drains. This approach was the introduction of reusable bags. Many cities have implemented fees and even bans on single-use plastic bags, encouraging consumers to switch to reusable alternatives. Some communities were shown giving out durable cloth bags to residents for free, helping them adopt more sustainable practices. This reduces the use of plastic bags but also raises awareness about their environmental impact, which will lead to a long-term shift in consumer behavior.
I believe that plastic bag waste is a big problem that needs to be dealt with at multiple scales whether that be local, national and global. Local communities can help implement policies like the plastic bag bans and fees but national and international regulations are necessary for consistency and a much greater impact. When dealing with the problem at a global scale, we can coordinate efforts to reduce plastic production and promote recycling and reusable bags. While some people may argue that plastic bags are misunderstood, the environmental harm they cause, whether that be to marine life and ecosystems, cannot be ignored. A contribution to local efforts and larger changes would be the most effective approach to dealing with this problem.
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