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GLOBAL ENVIRONMENT OUTLOOK FOR YOUTH IN ASIA AND THE PACIFIC


Figure 24: Microplastics are entering our food chain through seafood supply. Watch this for more information


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nb7tbfjYu3o A video link


Fight against plastic waste


To combat plastic debris, some countries have started to implement policies to reduce plastic litter by imposing bans or taxes on plastic bags and utensils (UNEP 2016). Recently, China has also stopped importing plastic waste, forcing the exporting countries to sort out their own waste issues. Technologies to solve plastic pollution – such as using biodegradable plastics and converting plastics to fuels or high value-added products including wood-plastic composites or carbon nanotubes – are continuously being explored and developed (Najafi 2013; Bazargan and Gordon 2012). Every one of us can play a major role in driving market forces by reducing our personal use of plastic.


Can we become responsible consumers by avoiding single-use plastics such as plastic straws and polythene bags? Ask yourselves: do you need plastic utensils for your take away food? We all need think and act now – before irreversible damage is done to our environment and well-being.


Electronic waste: phones could last longer!


How often do you buy a new phone? What happens to your old ones? The use of electronic devices such as mobile phones, computers, televisions and printers has increased dramatically (Figure 25). But the lifespan of electronics is getting shorter and shorter, generating tremendous amounts electronic waste, or e-waste.


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