My understanding of this issue began with a research project in my English class. Before beginning my assignment I was very skeptical of how such a small thing could have such a nightmarish effect, but I learned more than I ever expected to. I knew that plastic was incapacitating the environment , but I had no idea how abominable the plastic problem had gotten. Through my research I learned about microplastics entering our bodies as well as the bodies of marine life, how plastic enters our oceans, toxins created due to plastic waste, and the role we as humans play. Not only did I acknowledge the properties and effects of plastic on our ecosystem, I also looked into the government's role. I found out that money is a big issue in resolving this problem and that it is the reason plastic is still being produced. Although many scientists and researchers have begun to take steps in designing an alternative for plastic and exploring ways to reduce these fatalistic effects, we need money to help fund the progress. I found this disheartening, but refused to let that stop me, which is one of the reasons I have chosen to begin this campaign. While researching I was exposed to disturbing images of marine life suffocating because of a plastic bag, seeing a sea turtle with a straw through its nose crying for help , and looking at plastic filling up the insides of sea life. I could not fathom the idea of the food chain collapsing and how the next generation may not have the opportunity to observe our beautiful planet and its majestic species. After the conclusion of my project I have continued to find ways to spread awareness and work to save our planet. Everyday I witness humans disposing of plastic irresponsibly, unknowing of the consequences. It is NOT okay for companies to be producing 420 million tons of plastic per year or the fact that humans dispose of 91% of plastic instead of recycling it. I hope that by starting this campaign I am able to spread awareness to our fellow earthlings and raise money to support the 5 Gyres organization in terminating this plastic problem. Mother Earth gives us so much, we must do what we can in helping her. She is weeping right now and we must wipe away her tears. We cannot stand idly by as our planet perishes. We must us stand together as a united front and do our part as citizens of this fragile ecosystem by bringing an end to this horrific circumstance.
