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 ?

(a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I ✓ UPSC's answer
(b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I
(c) Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect
(d) Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct

Why the answer is (a)

• Most commercial chewing gums use a synthetic 'gum base' made of polymers such as polyvinyl acetate and polyisobutylene — the same plastics found in glues and inner tubes — rather than natural chicle; Statement-II is correct.

• Because this base is not biodegradable, discarded gum sticks to pavements for years and breaks into microplastics, making gum litter a recognised pollution problem; Statement-I is correct.

• The plastic content is precisely why gum persists in the environment, so Statement-II explains Statement-I.

• Singapore banned gum sales in 1992 largely for this reason, and biodegradable gums are now marketed as alternatives.

• Hence option (a).

Why the other options are wrong

(b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain…: The plastic gum base is exactly why gum pollutes, so II does explain I.
(c) Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect: Statement-II is also correct: gum base is commonly plastic.
(d) Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct: Statement-I is also correct: gum litter is a pollution source.

Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2024, held on 16 June 2024. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.