The Nepal Weekly 
June 4, 2024
By Lani Tamang Ghising
Plastic pollution represents one of the most pressing environmental problems of our time that affects the health of human being and terrestrial ecosystems. Land aspects of plastic pollution remain less discussed compared to the ocean; though, the former is none the less important. Plastic usage has increased exponentially since the mid-20th century due to its versatility and low cost. However, these two factors also contribute to the persistence of plastic in the environment, which has led to vast contamination. Unlike organic substances, plastic does not decompose or biodegrade but fractures into smaller particles—microplastics—that can remain in the soil for hundreds of years.
First and foremost, land-based plastic pollution stems from various sources. These include inefficient waste management practices—both as a result of insufficient collection and disposal systems—that contribute to plastic littering and illegal dumping. Moreover, plastics are extensively used in agriculture, including, for example, mulch films and irrigation pipes. These products often enter the soil as contaminants once discarded improperly. On the other hand, vast industrial sectors generate a considerable amount of plastic waste, much of which is either poorly managed or processed, contributing to all sorts of environmental pollution. Finally, consumer behaviour is under critical pressure, exacerbated by the excessive use and waste of single-use plastics in the form of bags, bottles, and packaging. Plastic pollution severely impacts soil health and fertility. Large plastic debris can alter soil structure, reducing its porosity and inhibiting water infiltration, which negatively affects plant growth and soil microorganisms. Moreover, plastics contain various chemical additives that can leach into the soil, potentially disrupting nutrient cycles and harming soil organisms. Microplastics, in particular, pose a significant threat as they can be ingested by soil organisms, leading to physical blockages, reduced growth, and reproductive issues.
Terrestrial wildlife also suffers from the consequences of plastic pollution. Animals frequently mistake plastic debris for food, leading to ingestion that can cause physical blockages, malnutrition, and even death. Entanglement in plastic waste can restrict movement, cause injuries, or lead to fatalities. Furthermore, the degradation of natural habitats due to plastic accumulation makes these environments less suitable for wildlife, disrupting entire ecosystems.
Human health is also at risk from plastic pollution in terrestrial environments. Microplastics can enter the food chain through crops grown in contaminated soils or through animals that have ingested plastic particles, potentially exposing humans to harmful chemicals. Additionally, plastic pollutants can leach into groundwater and surface water, affecting the quality of drinking water and posing health risks to communities.
Addressing plastic pollution on land requires comprehensive and multifaceted strategies. Improved waste management systems, strengthened regulations, public education, and innovative research are essential. By promoting effective waste collection, recycling, and disposal and by implementing policies to reduce plastic production and encourage sustainable alternatives, we can mitigate the adverse effects of plastic pollution. Raising public awareness about the environmental impacts of plastics and encouraging responsible consumer behaviour are also crucial steps. Furthermore, developing biodegradable alternatives to conventional plastics and advancing technologies for plastic waste treatment and recycling are necessary for long-term solutions.
In conclusion, plastic pollution poses a significant threat to land ecosystems, wildlife, soil health, and human well-being. It is imperative to address this issue with coordinated efforts from governments, industries, communities, and individuals to mitigate its impacts and safeguard the environment for future generations. Through holistic and sustained efforts, we can tackle plastic pollution and move towards a more sustainable and resilient planet.
