A prominent environmental group is urging the government and corporations to take decisive action to reduce plastic production at its source, following alarming findings that plastic pollution is spreading from urban areas into the countryside. The call to action comes after a joint study by Greenpeace and researchers from universities in Hong Kong and Taipei revealed the troubling presence of microplastics in wild animals across Hong Kong’s rural regions.
Greenpeace campaigner Leanne Tam emphasized the potential dangers posed by microplastics, particularly their impact on the food chain. “When we discuss animal waste, it plays a crucial role in our ecosystem by enriching the soil and supporting plant life,” Tam explained. “The introduction of microplastics into this process could lead to significant disruptions, affecting microorganisms in the soil and allowing plants to inadvertently absorb these harmful particles.”
Tam warned that as microplastics accumulate through the food chain, there is a growing risk that they could ultimately threaten human health. “If we don’t address this issue, we could find ourselves ingesting these microplastics, with unknown consequences for our well-being,” she stated.
The Greenpeace report highlights a pressing need for a shift in strategy. Tam argued that merely relying on recycling initiatives is insufficient. “To truly tackle the problem, we must cut down on the production of unnecessary plastic items, such as wraps and bags,” she said. “The government should expedite the implementation of the Producer Responsibility Scheme for items like plastic bottles, which has been discussed for years without a clear timeline.”
Tam’s comments underscore a broader call for regulatory measures that not only promote recycling but also limit the production of single-use plastics. She advocates for more sustainable practices, such as introducing refill stations and reusable containers, to encourage consumers to rethink their habits.
“The transition away from single-use plastics is essential for protecting our environment. We need proactive measures that support both businesses and consumers in making this shift,” Tam concluded.
As the debate over plastic pollution continues, the urgency for action has never been clearer. Environmental advocates are hopeful that increased awareness and pressure will lead to meaningful changes that safeguard both human and ecological health.
