Thursday

A Simple Action to Help Birds - #6

Protect Our Planet from Plastics



The challenge: It’s estimated that 4,900 million metric tons of plastic have accumulated in landfills and in our environment worldwide, polluting our oceans and harming wildlife such as seabirds, whales and turtles that mistakenly eat plastic or become entangled in it.

The cause: Plastic takes more than 400 years to degrade, and 91 percent of plastics created are not recycled. Studies show that at least 80 seabird species ingest plastic, mistaking it for food. Cigarette lighters, toothbrushes and other trash have been found in the stomachs of dead albatrosses.

Reduce your use of plastics: Avoid single-use plastics including bags, bottles, wraps and disposable utensils. It’s far better to choose reusable items, but if you do have disposable plastic, be sure to recycle it.

Thanks to our friends at 3billionbirds.org for these suggestions on how we can all help birds.

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