Plastic bags are not environmentally friendly materials. They pose significant risks to ecosystems, human health, and long-term sustainability. While they offer convenience, their negative impacts outweigh any perceived benefits.

Plastic bags are primarily composed of polyethylene, a synthetic polymer that persists in the environment for centuries. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), less than 1% of plastic bags in the United States are recycled, with the majority ending up in landfills, oceans, or as litter. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) estimates that over 5 trillion single-use plastic bags are consumed globally annually, contributing to marine pollution and harming wildlife. For example, a 2015 study in Science found that over 8 million tons of plastic enter oceans each year, with microplastics detected in 90% of marine species. Plastic bags also release toxic chemicals during decomposition, such as dioxins and phthalates, which can contaminate soil and waterways. Additionally, the production of plastic bags relies on fossil fuels, exacerbating greenhouse gas emissions. Reusable alternatives, such as cloth or biodegradable bags, have lower environmental footprints. The EPA estimates that switching to reusable bags could reduce annual plastic waste by up to 1.2 billion pounds in the U.S. alone. However, challenges like inconsistent recycling infrastructure and public behavior hinder adoption. Policymakers worldwide are increasingly imposing bans or levies on single-use plastics, reflecting their environmental toll. In summary, plastic bags are harmful to ecosystems, human health, and climate goals, making them unsustainable in the long term.