Plastic Reduction Impact Calculator
Calculate environmental savings from reducing plastic use. Estimate CO2, water, and waste reduction.
Formula
CO₂ = (bags × 0.08) + (bottles × 0.25); Plastic decomposition time: ~450 years per kg
- 1 plastic bag ≈ 0.08 kg CO₂
- 1 plastic bottle ≈ 0.25 kg CO₂ + 2L water
- Plastic takes ~450 years to decompose
- Reusable alternatives save resources
Example
Inputs
- Plastic Bags Avoided (per year): 100
- Plastic Bottles Avoided (per year): 365
Avoiding 100 bags + 365 bottles/year = ~100kg CO₂ + 730L water + 10kg plastic saved
Frequently asked questions
How long does plastic take to decompose?
400-500 years typical. Some estimates much longer. Composting still degrades it.
What's the water cost of plastic?
~2 liters per bottle to produce + all the water for disposal processing.