National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan

The plastic bags we use daily take hundreds of years to decompose — and even then, they never fully disappear. They pollute bodies of water and harm marine life. Many animals mistakenly ingest them or become entangled in the plastic, which often leads to their death. This doesn’t just threaten animals; it also endangers the future of our children. Environmental pollution is a problem we all share.

Tiny plastic particles — known as microplastics — can make their way into our food and water, posing serious health risks. It’s time to reduce our reliance on plastic bags and switch to greener alternatives. So how can we do this?

Reusable cloth or cotton bags are an excellent alternative. They are durable, require fewer resources to produce, and are made from natural fibres, making them eco-friendly. These bags are sturdy, easy to carry, modern and compact enough to fit in a pocket or everyday bag.

So next time a cashier asks if you need a bag, simply say “no.” Use the reusable bag you brought with you. Even small actions like this can make a big difference in reducing plastic waste and protecting our planet.