strengthening the management of marine plastic waste
At this year's two sessions of China, Zhang Haiwen, a member of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference and director of the Institute of Marine Development Strategy of the Ministry of Natural Resources, called for strengthening the management of Marine plastic waste in the proposal.
The United Nations Environment Program assessment report shows that about 11 million tons of plastic enter the world's oceans every year. There are many types and sources of plastic waste in the ocean, including broken nets and gear from Marine fishing and aquaculture, rope, foam and waste illegally dumped by ships such as passenger and cargo ships, It also includes plastic bags, plastic bottles, plastic straws and stirrers used and discarded in People's Daily life, cleaning and care supplies and their containers, outer packaging of food and supplies, disposable tableware, etc. Among them, the scrub particles contained in facial cleanser, toothpaste and laundry detergent are important sources of Marine microplastics.
"Plastic waste poses a serious threat to Marine ecosystems and human health." Zhang Haiwen said. Plastic waste, for example, can cause damage to whales, seals, turtles, birds and fish, among other creatures, including entanglement, ingestion, deprivation of oxygen and light, and damage to Marine life. Plastic waste is broken down in the ocean into microplastics, toxic chemicals, metals and organic pollutants, which are transferred to water bodies and sediments and accumulate in humans through the food chain. Marine plastic pollution also has a negative impact on the economic development of coastal areas, especially ports and shipping industries, tourism, fisheries, etc.
"The United Nations has opened negotiations to develop an international treaty to combat plastic pollution, covering the full life cycle of plastic products." In this regard, Zhang Haiwen suggested that at the national level, a comprehensive legal system and management system for plastic pollution control on land and sea should be established as soon as possible. For example, establish and improve the legal system, management system, monitoring and supervision mechanism of plastic pollution control; Improve production monitoring standards and industry technical norms; And strengthen overall planning and coordination among departments to consolidate the responsibilities of all parties.
At the industry level, promote technological innovation and green transformation of plastic-related industries as soon as possible. For example, pay attention to the recycling of plastics, develop bioplastics and alternative materials, apply ecological design, and research and develop new ways of green recycling of waste plastics; Shift from the production of single-use plastic products to the production of reusable plastic products, and guide the formation of recyclable consumption patterns; And carry out coordinated action with the international community to control Marine plastic waste.
At the social and individual level, advocate starting from myself, and cultivate the whole society to form a green and healthy consumption and lifestyle. For example, set up "Plastic Reduction Day", hold science popularization education and publicity activities to enhance the public's awareness of plastic reduction; Advocate starting from me, starting from the side, reducing the formation of plastic waste from the source; Strengthen the people's awareness of conservation, environmental protection and ecological awareness, advocate a simple and moderate, green and low-carbon lifestyle, so that the whole society can consciously act and work together to build a harmonious coexistence of human and nature.