2023: Reducing Plastic Pollution and Everhard Manufacturing’s Role in Australian Sustainability
World Environment Day (WED) is a renowned global event held annually on June 5th, aiming to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote sustainable practices. As we approach the 50th anniversary of WED in 2023, the focus is on reducing plastic pollution and promoting the responsible use of single-use plastics. In this comprehensive article, we will discuss the history of World Environment Day, the current crisis of plastic pollution, and the role of Australian companies like Everhard Manufacturing in addressing this issue.
The Origins of World Environment Day
The first World Environment Day was celebrated in 1974, following the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment held in Stockholm in 1972. The conference, which was initiated by Sweden and led by Canadian diplomat and environmental advocate Maurice Strong, aimed to address environmental issues and promote sustainable living.
Over the years, WED has been embraced by people worldwide, including various celebrities such as Leonardo DiCaprio and Meryl Streep, who actively support environmental awareness initiatives. The day is now celebrated by governments, organisations, and individuals who engage in activities that protect and conserve our planet.
2023: A Milestone Year for World Environment Day
2023 marks the 50th anniversary of World Environment Day, making it a significant milestone in the history of environmental advocacy. This year, the event is hosted by Côte d’Ivoire in partnership with the Netherlands, with the primary campaign focusing on #BeatPlasticPollution.
The Crisis of Plastic Pollution
Plastic pollution has become one of the most pressing environmental issues, with plastics constituting at least 85% of total marine waste. More than 400 million tonnes of plastic are produced worldwide every year, half of which are designed for single use only. Unfortunately, less than 10% of the plastic waste is recycled, resulting in an estimated 19-23 million tonnes of plastic ending up in lakes, rivers, and seas annually.
Microplastics: An Invisible Threat
Microplastics, tiny plastic particles measuring up to 5mm in diameter, have found their way into our food, water, and air. It is estimated that each person on the planet consumes more than 50,000 plastic particles per year, with this number increasing if inhalation is considered. The presence of discarded or burnt single-use plastic has harmful consequences for human health, biodiversity, and the environment, polluting ecosystems from mountain tops to the ocean floor.
The Need for Urgent Action
With the current state of plastic pollution and its impact on the environment, urgent action is required to address the issue. World Environment Day 2023 aims to mobilise transformative actions from governments, companies, and individuals to reduce plastic pollution and promote sustainable practices.
The Role of Governments, Companies, and Stakeholders
To tackle the plastic pollution crisis, a collective effort is required from various stakeholders, including governments, companies, and individuals. In 2022, 175 UN Member States endorsed a historic resolution to end plastic pollution and forge an international legally binding agreement by 2024. This agreement considered the most significant environmental multilateral deal since the Paris Accord, serves as an insurance policy for current and future generations against the harmful effects of plastic pollution.
The Shift to a Circular Economy
A shift to a circular economy can significantly reduce plastic pollution by promoting recycling, reducing virgin plastic production, and minimizing waste. By 2040, adopting a circular economy can:
- Reduce the volume of plastics entering oceans by over 80%
- Decrease virgin plastic production by 55%
- Save governments US$70 billion
- Reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 25%
- Create 700,000 additional jobs, primarily in the global south
Everhard Manufacturing: An Australian Example of Sustainable Manufacturing
Everhard Manufacturing, an Australian company specializing in water management and environmental systems, is committed to reducing plastic pollution and promoting sustainable practices. By incorporating recycled plastics into its manufacturing process, Everhard is one example of a manufacturer trying to do the right thing.
Responsible Use of Single-Use Plastics
Everhard Manufacturing recognizes the environmental impact of single-use plastics and strives to minimize their use in production. By adopting sustainable practices and focusing on recycling, Everhard contributes to the global effort to reduce plastic pollution.
Australian Manufacturing: A Growing Trend Towards Sustainability
Everhard is not alone in its commitment to sustainability. Many Australian manufacturers are adopting environmentally-friendly practices, embracing the use of recycled plastics and reducing their reliance on single-use plastics. This shift towards sustainable manufacturing is a crucial step in addressing the plastic pollution crisis.
What You Can Do to #BeatPlasticPollution
World Environment Day 2023 encourages everyone to take action and contribute to the global effort to reduce plastic pollution. Here are some ways you can get involved:
- Reduce your consumption of single-use plastics: Opt for reusable alternatives, such as cloth bags, metal straws, and glass containers.
- Recycle properly: Ensure that you are recycling plastics according to your local guidelines.
- Support companies that prioritize sustainability: Choose to purchase products from companies like Everhard Manufacturing that incorporate recycled materials and promote environmentally-friendly practices.
- Spread awareness: Share information about plastic pollution and World Environment Day on social media using the hashtag #BeatPlasticPollution.
- Participate in local events: Join cleanup activities, workshops, and seminars in your community to help protect the environment.
Conclusion
As we approach World Environment Day 2023, it is crucial to acknowledge the global crisis of plastic pollution and the responsibility we all share in addressing this issue. By supporting companies like Everhard Manufacturing and adopting sustainable practices in our daily lives, we can contribute to the collective effort to reduce plastic pollution and protect our planet for future generations.