Write down five harmful effects of using non-biodegradable products like plastic bags. Suggest measures that can help to replace plastic bags with eco-friendly products.

Harmful effects of using non-biodegradable products like plastic bags are:

1. Environmental pollution — Non-biodegradable plastic bags contribute to environmental pollution when improperly disposed of, leading to littering of land, water bodies, and natural habitats.
2. Wildlife and marine life impact — Animals can mistake plastic bags for food or become entangled in them, resulting in injury, suffocation, and death. Marine life suffers from plastic pollution in oceans and waterways.
3. Soil degradation — When plastic bags end up in soil, they can hinder water and nutrient absorption, affecting the growth of plants. The presence of plastic debris in soil disrupts natural processes and can lead to long-term soil degradation.
4. Health hazards — Non-biodegradable plastic bags can release toxic chemicals and microplastics into the environment. These pollutants can contaminate water sources, enter the food chain, and pose risks to human health.
5. Long-term persistence — Plastic bags take hundreds of years to decompose, leading to their long-term presence in the environment and the accumulation of plastic waste.

Some measures that can help to replace plastic bags with eco-friendly products are:

1. Promote reusable bags made from sustainable materials like cotton, jute, or canvas.
2. Support the development and use of biodegradable bags made from materials like bioplastics or compostable plant fibers.
3. Implement policies such as plastic bag bans, levies, or mandatory fees to discourage the use of plastic bags.
4. Raise public awareness about the harmful effects of plastic bags and the benefits of eco-friendly alternatives.
5. Promote responsible waste management and encourage individuals to choose reusable bags.