Personally, as a witness of the devastating effects of global warming, famine and drought affecting my homeland, Somalia, I am moved to act. Climate change is an indisputable reality: Warmer weather, erratic rainfall patterns and extreme weather events have become increasingly common. The use of plastic bags is exacerbating these horrific conditions, as they contribute significantly to environmental pollution and degradation.

Plastic bags, commonly utilized in Somalia, take hundreds of years to decompose, if at all. They block drainage systems, pollute our waters and pose a threat to both humans and wildlife. Moreover, they are a massive contributor to greenhouse gas emission. According to Earth Day Network, plastic pollution contributes to approximately 20% of overall greenhouse gas emissions, thus playing a large role in global warming.

Somalia is already on the forefront of climate change. We should not add to our suffering by entrenching harmful practices. There are eco-friendly alternatives which can efficiently replace plastic bags. The negative environmental impact of continued plastic bag usage far outweighs the temporary convenience they provide. Remember, our actions today will echo in generations to come.

We need to push for the cessation of plastic bag usage in Somalia. It's time to protect our environment and safeguard the future of our beautiful nation. Please, join me in this fight. Sign this petition today to end plastic bag usage in Somalia. Let us make a difference, together.