The correct option is (a).
Explanation
Plastic pollution involves the accumulation of synthetic plastic products in the environment. Due to their durability and non-biodegradable nature, plastics persist for extended periods, causing significant ecological and infrastructural damage.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct: Carelessly disposed plastic bags frequently accumulate in drainage systems and sewers. Being water-resistant and non-biodegradable, they create physical barriers that block the flow of wastewater. This leads to the choking of drains, resulting in waterlogging and the spread of waterborne diseases.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: Stray animals are not immune to the harmful effects of plastic. Animals, such as cows and dogs, often ingest plastic bags while foraging for food in waste dumps. The ingested plastic can choke their respiratory tracts or accumulate in their stomachs, forming a lining that prevents digestion, often leading to starvation and death.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: Plastic does not decompose biologically to add nutrients to the soil. Instead, it persists in the soil environment, physically obstructing the percolation of water and the movement of air. This reduces soil porosity and quality, negatively affecting plant growth rather than increasing fertility.
Key Takeaway:
Plastic waste is environmentally detrimental as it causes infrastructural blockages (drains), poses fatal health risks to wildlife through ingestion, and degrades soil health by inhibiting water infiltration and aeration.