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Answer 1

(1) According to Smith (2020), the global consumption of plastic has reached unprecedented levels, with more than 300 million tons of plastic waste generated each year. (2) This excessive production and disposal of plastic presents significant environmental challenges, as highlighted by Johnson (2019). (3) In response to this issue, governments and organizations have initiated several measures, such as plastic bag bans and the promotion of reusable alternatives. (4) However, despite these efforts, plastic waste continues to accumulate in landfills and oceans, causing detrimental effects on ecosystems and marine life (Johnson, 2019). (5) Therefore, urgent action is required to address the plastic pollution crisis and find sustainable solutions.