Introduction Plastic bags are among the most widely used products in daily life due to their light weight, low cost, and ease of production. However, their excessive use has led to serious environmental problems, making plastic bags one of the major sources of pollution in the modern world. Their long-lasting presence in the environment poses significant threats to ecosystems and human health. Composition and Properties of Plastic Bags Plastic bags are primarily made from petroleum-based materials, especially polyethylene, which is highly resistant to natural decomposition. As a result, plastic bags may take hundreds of years to degrade, leading to their accumulation in soil and aquatic environments. Environmental Impacts of Plastic Bags 1. Soil Pollution Plastic bags buried in soil reduce soil aeration and water permeability, negatively affecting plant growth and soil microorganisms essential for maintaining soil fertility. In addition, prolonged exposure to heat and sunlight can cause plastic to release harmful chemical substances into the soil. 2. Water and Marine Pollution Plastic bags pose a significant threat to aquatic ecosystems. They are often carried by wind or rain into rivers and oceans, causing environmental and visual pollution. Marine animals such as fish, turtles, and seabirds may ingest plastic bags, mistaking them for food, which can lead to suffocation or death due to digestive blockage. 3. Impact on Wildlife Plastic bags seriously endanger wildlife, as animals may become entangled in them or consume them. This can result in severe injuries or death and is considered one of the major factors contributing to the decline of certain animal populations. 4. Indirect Health Effects on Humans As plastic bags break down into small particles known as microplastics, they can enter the human food chain through contaminated water and food. These particles may carry toxic chemicals that accumulate in the human body and pose potential risks to public health. Economic and Social Dimensions The collection, recycling, or disposal of plastic bags imposes significant financial costs on governments and communities. Moreover, environmental pollution negatively affects tourism and other economic activities that depend on clean and healthy environments. Proposed Solutions and Alternatives To reduce the harmful effects of plastic bags, several measures can be adopted: Reducing the use of single-use plastic bags. Promoting reusable and biodegradable alternatives. Implementing environmental regulations to limit plastic bag production and distribution. Raising public awareness about the importance of environmental protection. Conclusion Plastic bags represent a global environmental challenge that requires collective action at both individual and institutional levels. Adopting environmentally responsible behaviors and sustainable alternatives is essential to protect the environment and preserve natural resources for future generations.