Date:28-10-2022
Objectives:
-To encourage students to avoid unnecessary usage of plastic
Highlights:
The Electrical Engineering Department, UIET, Sant Baba Bhag Singh University (SBBSU), Jalandhar, organized an extension activity on the topic “Say no to Plastic” on 28th October, 2022, at St. Soldier Polytechnic College, Chabbewal, Hoshiarpur. The activity was coordinated by Er. Mandip Singh (Assistant Professor, EE) and five students of the department. Plastic pollution is any plastic that ends up in the environment – from bottles and bags to less obvious sources like teabags and clothes and currently it is one of the biggest environmental concerns. In the past 100 years humans have produced (and used) a lot of plastic. It is a very long-lived product that could potentially have service over decades. It's cheap, strong, light and versatile, but all of it eventually ends up in the ground, in the air , and in the sea – which is where marine animals like albatross, dolphins and turtles ingest it. People are exposed to chemicals from plastic multiple times per day through the air, dust, water, food and use of consumer products. The amount of garbage in the world increases as the population grows, and disposable plastic products, like water bottles and soda cans, accumulate over time. Plastic pollution occurs when enough plastic has gathered in an area that it affects the natural environment and harms plants, animals, or humans. Overuse of plastic is the main cause of plastic pollution. Plastic is cheap and widely available, but people frequently dispose of plastic items. They don’t decompose, and they release an incredible amount of toxins into the air if they’re burned. The pollution in the ocean is mostly from plastic, and it has a terrible impact on marine species. As a result, it can hurt the economy and food supply for communities that rely on fishing. It can hurt tiny organisms like plankton, which larger animals rely on for food. If small organisms are poisoned from ingesting plastic, the animals that eat them will also consume toxins. The toxins work their way up the food chain and can even be present in the fish people eat. Not only does plastic cause damage to the ocean, but it can also damage groundwater sources. Many regions are already facing issues with, but water sources everywhere are in danger because of plastic pollution. Plastic toxins in dumps and from litter can seep into the groundwater, which people drink every day. Air pollution is another issue for humans and animals. When plastic is burned in the open air, it releases large amounts of toxins, which pollutes the air. If the toxins are inhaled for a long period of time, it can lead to respiratory problems. The event ended on a note that the students will refrain from unnecessary usage of plastic.
