UPSC Previous Year Question | Prelims GS | 2024

Consider the following statements: Statement-I: Many chewing gums found in the market are considered a source of environmental pollution. Statement-II: Many chewing gums contain plastic as gum base. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

  1. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I.
  2. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I.
  3. Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect.
  4. Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct.

Answer

Correct Answer

Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I.

Explanation

Statement-I is correct because discarded chewing gum persists in the environment and contributes to litter and pollution. Statement-II is also correct because many modern chewing gums use synthetic polymers, including plastic-based materials, as their gum base. These materials are not readily biodegradable under ordinary environmental conditions. The plastic content explains why discarded chewing gum can persist and contribute to pollution. Option B is incorrect because Statement-II directly explains Statement-I. Options C and D are incorrect because neither statement is false.

Topics: chewing gum waste, environment, environmental pollution, plastic pollution