Plastic has both positive and negative impacts on the environment. Positively, plastics are strong, lightweight and durable materials that can be molded into various shapes. However, plastic production relies on non-renewable resources like petroleum and coal. A large amount of plastic waste ends up polluting land, water and oceans. When plastic debris is ingested by marine animals, it can cause injury, poisoning or death. The growth of plastic use and improper disposal is threatening ecosystems and wildlife.