<human>: Is the use of plastic bags harmful for the environment?
<bot>: Yes, the use of plastic bags is harmful for the environment. Plastic bags take hundreds of years to biodegrade and can end up in landfills or oceans polluting the ecosystem. They also have a negative impact on wildlife as they often get caught in trees or other natural habitats causing animals to starve or die from dehydration. Additionally, plastic bags are made from petroleum products that release toxins into the atmosphere contributing to air pollution.