UPSC DAW Mains Answer Writing 2025 15th September

UPSC DAW Mains Answer Writing 2025 15th September

Question

Global plastic pollution is a menace to the ecosystem. Discuss the impact of global plastic pollution crisis and measures to curb plastic pollution. (15M,250 words) 

Model Answer

Introduction Global plastic pollution is one of the most pressing environmental issues and can alter habitats and natural processes, reducing ecosystems’ ability to adapt to climate change and directly affecting millions of people’s livelihoods, food production capabilities, and social well-being.   Impact of Global Plastic Pollution 

  1. Environmental Impacts:  Plastic trash dumped into oceans, major rivers, and lakes creates garbage patches and destroys aquatic biodiversity.  Accumulation of plastic on Earth creates landfills, which cause health problems by releasing toxic, persistent organic compounds.  Example: Annually, 10 million tonnes are released into the oceans. 

 

  1. Impact on Climate Change:  By releasing potent gases such as methane and ethylene as plastic breaks down in the environment, and by reducing the ability of ocean phytoplankton to absorb carbon dioxide. 

Example: UNEP estimates that plastic production, use, and disposal could account for 19% of the total global carbon budget by 2040.  

  1. Impact on Human Health:  Microplastics, such as BPA and the toxic chemical additives in plastic, cause the spread of pathogens in the body and have been linked to cancers, inflammation, birth defects, cardiovascular diseases, and hormonal disruptions. 

  2. Impact on the Economy:  Plastic pollution negatively affects national economies by reducing income in sectors such as tourism, fisheries, and agriculture.   Measures to Reduce Plastic Pollution Around the World 

  3. Reduce Plastic Production and Consumption:  End fossil fuel subsidies that support virgin plastic production and mandate companies to disclose their plastic use.  Example: In 2008, Rwanda was one of the first countries to ban plastic bags and packaging. 

  4. Improve Solid Waste Management:  Expand safe plastic disposal systems, improve waste collection, and increase recycling rates globally. 

  5. Promote Circular Economy:  Design products for reuse, repair, and recycling to minimize waste and keep materials in use for longer.  Example: India promotes a circular economy through the Vehicle Scrappage Policy and the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM- Urban 2.0) for waste management. 

  6. Develop and Adopt New Materials:  Promote the development of alternative materials to plastic, including bioplastics such as polylactic acid (PLA), and plant-derived materials like bamboo, seaweed, mushrooms, and algae. 

  7. Promote Global Collaborations:  Support the development of an international treaty to establish global standards for plastic pollution control and accountability (Global Plastic Pollution Treaty). 

Conclusion 

Reduction of plastic pollution needs a holistic strategy involving circular economy principles, advanced waste management, and public awareness. Only by balancing historical accountability with shared innovation can nations collectively reduce plastic waste and ensure global sustainability.