Plastic has become an integral part of modern life, profoundly altering the way we live compared to centuries ago. Its convenience, affordability, and durability have revolutionized our consumption habits, replacing traditional materials and transforming our interactions with products. Leo Baekeland's invention of the first plastic in 1907 marked the beginning of this transformative era. The use of plastic increased after World War I, especially in shipping and packaging, marking the beginning of a widespread adoption of the material. However, this reliance on plastic has brought significant environmental consequences, notably plastic pollution and its enduring impact on ecosystems. In the 21st century, plastics continue to play a crucial role, not only on Earth but even extending to the Moon. As stewards of the future, youth hold a pivotal role in addressing the issues of plastic pollution and driving meaningful change to ensure a sustainable future for our planet.
Young people possess the potential to drive change by raising awareness about the detrimental effects of single-use plastics within their communities, cultivating a culture of environmental awareness. They can take the lead in combating pollution by employing various strategies, honing their research skills, and sharing knowledge within their peer circles. Encouraging the adoption of the "3Rs" principle - reduce, reuse, and recycle - is paramount. By promoting sustainable practices and advocating for alternatives to single-use plastics, youth can make a significant impact. While leveraging the latest technologies and tools can address the issue in the short term, the ultimate goal is to find green solutions. Therefore, promoting innovation and entrepreneurship among like-minded individuals is crucial. By investing their ideas, young people can pioneer sustainable solutions and technologies to tackle the plastic crisis effectively. Additionally, youth should be trained to categorize items as either waste or valuable resources based on their potential for reuse, regardless of their perceived capabilities.
GreenShift Nepal tackles plastic pollution by partnering with youth groups. These groups engage in various local-level activities, including awareness programs, street dramas, and environmental research. They advocate for environmental issues within local government and collaborate with schools, community-based organizations (CBOs), international NGOs (INGOs), and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to broaden their impact.
Youth have the potential to catalyze positive change towards a cleaner and greener environment. The concept of the circular economy is designed to prioritize regeneration and restoration, aiming to emulate Earth's natural patterns within our economic structure. This involves shifting cultural and attitudinal patterns in both consumption and creation. Collaboration is key to achieving circularity. Information exchange among consumers, developers, manufacturers, recyclers, government, and other stakeholders throughout a product's lifespan is essential. In the context of Nepal, all levels of government must collaborate to establish rules and regulations that involve youth in the circular economy. While current recycling efforts can reduce plastic waste in landfills, true transformation requires organized systems that drive shifts in behavior and the economy. By embracing green solutions and leading by example, youth can pave the way for a healthier, more sustainable future for generations to come.
