Approximately estimated 600 billion to a trillion of plastic bags are used every year across the globe, and only a fraction of them are reused or recycled.

Plastic bags came into existence in the 1970's as a substitute to the paper bag. They gained recognition due to their durability, light-weight, and re-usability. Yet the impacts of plastic bags on are environment is shocking: these small items alone represent 1% of all trash in landfills, mostly due to their one-time use by many consumers. The plastic in these bags can take up to 1,000 years to be broken down and re-introduced into the environment, and little plastic bags begin to litter beaches, parks, and even our oceans.

Fortunately, some communities in United States have started taking serious action. San Francisco implemented their ban after realizing that the city of 740,000 people sends over 2 million bags per year into landfills. For every bag, there's a cost. Most malls and stores in Asian countries sell their own re-usable shopping bags, probably as a marketing tactic but nevertheless one with a good cause, and often give it for free too. Retailers in European countries are now charging a small fee for plastic bags when customers don't bring their own.

There are constant reports that plastic bags, and other plastic refuse that end up in the ocean, kill up to one million sea creatures every year, such as birds, whales, seals, sea turtles, and others. Number of marine mammals that die each year because of consuming or being entangled in plastic is projected at 100,000 in the North Pacific Ocean alone. Plastic bags have long been a waste problem that harms the environment.

Just look at the climate changes we are hearing about in the day to day news. All this is caused by global warming which is, in turn a result of human carelessness and what can I do alone attitude.

The simplest thing to do is say NO and refuse to use a plastic bag. Would you consume poison? Then why would you use plastic bag knowing that one day it would be the ruination of the earth?

• First buy a good sturdy cloth bag for your weekly visits to the mall.
• Carry an extra cloth bag in your purse or car at all times.
• Buy in bulk to reduce packaging.
• If you are just buying few items, better stuff it in one bag or carry it in your hand.
• Use other options such as cardboard boxes, bins, or heavier reusable bags.

Everyone today is busy worried about public opinion and hence are embarrassed to follow these simple things, or might just think that their contribution is not going to stop the impact on the environment. But statics shows that an average American family of 4 will use about 1500 plastic bags annually.

The time has come for all of us to start making a conscious effort to help sustain the environment. We really can't afford to take things for granted anymore! After all you have to decide!!!