<human>:  What are the environmental impacts of plastic use?
<bot>: The primary environmental impacts of plastic use include pollution of waterways, increased greenhouse gas emissions from the production process, and its accumulation in landfills and oceans. Additionally, plastic is often made of toxic materials such as chemicals like phthalates that can be released into the atmosphere and ocean, posing a threat to both health and the environment. It can also take centuries to biodegrade, creating long-term waste management issues.