Improper Disposal of Non-Biodegradable Chewing Gum is One of the Biggest Threats to Our Ecology: A Review

Abstract

One of the oldest habits of human beings is chewing gum. It has continued from ancient civilizations to the current time. Gum chewing provides a relaxing experience that individuals enjoy for a long time. The non-food item, chewing gum, has a long history. The gradual progression of its development has provided us with a greater flavour as well as extra medicinal properties. Chewing gum is known for its stress-relieving qualities as well as its ability to keep our mouths fresh. Soon, ‘chewing gum’ will be included as part of the drug delivery mechanism. Unfortunately, it has had some negative consequences. Modern chewing gum is made of non-biodegradable hydrophobic polymers together with artificial sweeteners and flavours. So, chewing this sort of synthetic material over a long time could produce some adverse effects. After chewing, most individuals throw the waste part of chewing gum everywhere, resulting in environmental trash known as 'gum pollution. Each year, chewing gum generates more than 105 tonnes of "plastic" garbage. Thus, the discarded non-biodegradable residue of the gum produces plastic pollution. Every year, enormous sums of money are spent to clean up the abandoned gum from the streets. Again, it has a high potential to trap bacteria inside. Therefore, this widespread habit causes an additional nuisance in this pandemic situation. As a result, the waste part of the gum has multiple dimensions to pollute our environment. Gum disposal has become a major problem all across the world. Gum litter can only be reduced by properly disposing of gum. As a result, it's time to reconsider the role of chewing gum in terms of human health and the environment. This article emphasizes the importance of proper waste (gum) disposal and calls for increased awareness to safeguard our environment from "gum pollution."