'WHEN THE LAST TREE IS CUT DOWN,
THE LAST FISH EATEN,
AND THE LAST STREAM POISONED,
YOU WILL REALIZE
THAT YOU CANNOT EAT MONEY'
| indigenous american saying
TACKLING PLASTIC POLLUTION TOGETHER
Change starts with a small action—one conscious choice that ripples outward. Every day, the equivalent of 2,000 garbage trucks full of plastic is dumped into the world's oceans, rivers, and lakes, contributing to the 19–23 million tonnes of plastic waste that leak into aquatic ecosystems each year. Plastic pollution is not just an environmental crisis—it’s a human health issue. Microplastics enter our food chain through seafood and contaminate water sources, exposing people to serious health risks, from cancer and reproductive issues to respiratory diseases and neurological problems. Yet, the power to create change lies with individuals. In Western Europe alone, the average person consumes 150kg of plastic annually, more than twice the global average. By making more sustainable choices—such as refilling instead of purchasing single-use plastic packaging—consumers send a powerful message to industries, demanding better alternatives. At Terra, we believe sustainability isn’t just a trend; it’s a movement. By taking small but meaningful steps today, we can push for industry-wide change and create a future where performance and sustainability go hand in hand.
1. Impact on environment
According to the United Nations, every day, the equivalent of 2,000 garbage trucks full of plastic are dumped into the world's oceans, rivers, and lakes. Plastic pollution is a global problem. Every year 19-23 million tonnes of plastic waste leaks into aquatic ecosystems, polluting lakes, rivers, and seas.
2. Impact on human health
Food and water contamination are also significant sources of plastic exposure. Plastic debris can enter the food chain through the consumption of seafood and other marine animals that have ingested plastic particles. Moreover, plastic particles can contaminate water sources, including rivers, lakes, and oceans, making them unsafe for human consumption. The effects of plastic pollution on human health are far-reaching, from cancer and reproductive issues to respiratory diseases and neurological problems.
3. Average plastic waste of a consumer
In Western Europe, the average annual plastic consumption is around 150kg per person — more than twice the global average of 60kg. -- Europen Environment Agency
4. A change starts with a small action
Change starts with a small action—one conscious choice that ripples outward. When individuals choose to reduce waste and embrace sustainable habits, they collectively harness the power of consumer demand to drive real impact. By opting to refill rather than repurchase single-use packaging, customers send a clear message that sustainability matters. This shift in consumer behavior doesn’t just benefit the environment—it pushes the industry to rethink wasteful practices and adopt more responsible solutions. At Terra, we believe that sustainability isn’t just a trend; it’s a movement led by the choices we make every day. Together, through small but powerful actions, we can redefine industry standards and create a future where performance and sustainability go hand in hand.
