For World Environment Day 2023, Wildlife SOS invited readers to participate in a writing contest on the theme “My Solution to Plastic”. We received an overwhelming response from passionate readers who shared their innovative ideas and creative solutions to tackle plastic pollution!
We are delighted to announce the winners of the writing contest. These outstanding contributions highlight do-it-yourself solutions that hold the potential to make a lasting impact. Here are the winning entries!
Rely On Eco-Friendly Alternatives
By Sashesh Singh
“During my tenure at Odisha Livelihoods Mission, I initiated a project that revolutionized the production of sustainable products. Collaborating with various organizations, we harnessed the potential of abundant local resources such as rice husk, golden grass, sabai grass, and tendu leaves. These eco-friendly materials were transformed into innovative and practical alternatives to plastic. By promoting the utilization of these sustainable products, we aimed to reduce plastic consumption and mitigate environmental impact. Through strategic partnerships, we connected with markets and communities, creating awareness and generating demand for these eco-conscious alternatives. This holistic approach not only addressed the plastic pollution crisis but also fostered rural livelihoods and empowered local communities. Together, we laid the foundation for a more sustainable future, intertwining environmental conservation with socio-economic development.”
Ban The Use Of Plastic At Home
By Lovedeep Sidhu
“It’s been quite a few years since I vowed to never use plastic bags for groceries, plastic straws to drink. Buying a plastic water bottle is a sin for me. So there’s a cloth bag and steel straw in my handbag, cloth bags in my car, and a water bottle that I always carry. More recently, I only buy bath products and toiletries that are made from 100 percent recycled plastic bottles. People in my family and those who are employed with us have also been made aware of the dangers of plastic pollution, so using plastic bags is banned in our household.”
My Motto: Reduce, Reuse and Recycle
By Mani Gupta
“Plastic pollution has become a global crisis, threatening our ecosystems, wildlife, and human health. As an individual concerned about the environment, I have pondered over the issue and developed a solution to address the pervasive problem of plastic. My solution revolves around three key principles: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. Firstly, reducing plastic consumption is paramount. By making conscious choices, such as carrying reusable bags, water bottles, and coffee cups, we can significantly minimize our plastic footprint. Opting for products with minimal or sustainable packaging further aids in reducing plastic waste generation. Secondly, reusing is vital. Repurposing plastic containers, bottles, and packaging for alternative purposes or creative projects extends their lifespan and reduces the demand for new plastic products. Encouraging the use of refillable containers and promoting a sharing culture can also contribute to reducing plastic waste. Lastly, recycling is essential to ensure proper management of plastic waste. Supporting local recycling programs, segregating waste at the source, and choosing products made from recycled plastic contribute to the circular economy and reduce the reliance on virgin plastic. Additionally, advocating for policies that incentivize businesses to adopt sustainable packaging alternatives and supporting technological advancements in biodegradable materials can accelerate the transition away from plastic. In conclusion, tackling the plastic crisis requires a collective effort. By embracing the principles of reducing, reusing, and recycling, we can actively contribute to a sustainable future, minimizing the negative impact of plastic on our planet. It is time to take responsibility and be part of the solution by adopting eco-friendly alternatives and spreading awareness about the importance of reducing plastic consumption. Together, we can make a significant difference and create a cleaner, greener world for future generations.”
Congratulations to all our winners! As we celebrate World Environment Day, we recognise the role that every individual plays in preserving our planet. Their ideas inspire us to take action and strive for a future where plastic pollution becomes an episode of the past. Let us join hands with these changemakers and work together towards a sustainable and plastic-free world.
