How can plastic bags and plastic films contribute to flooding in cities?

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Ubiquitous plastics — plastic pollution A volunteer collecting plastic nurdles (pellets less than 0.2 inch [0.5 centimeter] in diameter) at Barreiras Beach, Corrubedo, Spain.

Plastic bags and plastic films contribute to urban flooding by clogging drainage systems. When these lightweight, nonbiodegradable materials are improperly disposed of, they are easily transported by wind or stormwater runoff into municipal infrastructure. Once they accumulate within drains and gutters, they create physical blockages that prevent the efficient flow of water, leading to the flooding of low-lying areas during heavy rainfall.123