Plastic is a material we use every day. The first plastics were made more than 100 years ago from parts of plants. Plastics are now made from oil, coal and natural gas. We are using up these things so fast that the Earth's supplies may run out. Because of this, scientists are investigating new ideas for making plastics from plants such as sweet potato, bamboo and flax.
Things made from plastic can be useful for people but bad for the planet. Some plastics can last for a long time without wearing out, and can be difficult to get rid of when they are not needed. They can remain in rubbish dumps for hundreds of years.
Recycling is a good way to solve the problems of unwanted plastics. Recycled waste materials can be used again to make new products. This can be difficult as different types of plastic need to be recycled in different ways. Some kinds of plastics can be melted down and used to make new things such as bags and bottles. Others can be made into fibres for clothing.
Another way to protect the environment is to use canvas bags for shopping instead of plastic ones. A lot of plastic objects can also be reused. Plastic bottles can be refilled many times, rather than thrown away once -they- are empty. Unwanted plastic goods such as CDs and toys can be sold or given away to charity shops.

It's estimated that about three billion people use the Internet computer network around the world. Most people use the Internet to get information and for entertainment. (46) , a new study shows us that almost 10% of Internet users are using it so often that it is seriously (47) their lives. The study says that these people may (48) it difficult to stop using the Internet because they have become addicted. According to a psychologist in the field, 30% of Internet users say that they use the Internet (49) from problems or emotions. The study also shows that having a chat or discussion with strangers (50) the Internet is one of the most addictive activities.