The Plastic Problem

Plastic pollution poses a significant threat to our planet, impacting oceans, wildlife, and freshwater ecosystems on a global scale. The South Pacific Garbage Patch, a massive accumulation of marine debris larger than the state of Texas, is just one example of the devastating effects of plastic pollution. This issue is not limited to oceans, as even the Great Lakes and the Mariana Trench are now facing the consequences of plastic waste. The exponential growth in plastic production has led to a surplus of waste, with microplastic pellets from manufacturing facilities finding their way into water bodies through accidental spills. These microplastics degrade over time, breaking down into smaller fragments that persist indefinitely.

Despite these alarming trends, global plastic recycling rates remain dismally low, with estimates suggesting only 9% of plastic is recycled worldwide, and a mere 10% in the United States. The sheer volume of waste generated, exemplified by Americans producing an average of 4.5 pounds of trash per person per day, exacerbates the severity of the issue. Malaysia has emerged as the top destination for plastic scrap imports, resulting in a buildup of plastic waste at recycling facilities. This waste is either burned or illegally disposed of, leading to environmental pollution and health risks. In response, Malaysia implemented a ban on new plastic waste imports in 2018, which unfortunately led to the proliferation of illegal dumping sites and smugglers venturing deeper into remote areas. Despite efforts in plastic recycling, the recovery of small plastic pieces remains a challenge. The prohibition on plastic straws has prompted individuals to reconsider their plastic usage, with compostable straws emerging as a potential alternative, albeit with certain limitations. Businesses in Seattle are adapting to the ban by exploring sustainable options, with Taco Time setting an example by utilizing fully compostable items for all its products.

Seattle boasts a comprehensive composting system that includes organic waste, and even compost facilities are segregating plastics. The city's commitment to reducing plastic waste extends to its baseball park, where food vendors are required to use compostable items. Meanwhile, Canada is gearing up to enforce the world's strictest plastic ban by 2021. In Toronto, the Unboxed Market stands out as a zero-waste grocery store that prioritizes minimal packaging and plastic usage. Customers bring their containers to transport their purchases from Unboxed Market. Plastic pollution is a pressing issue that necessitates action from both individuals and businesses. Canadians are in favor of a plastic ban and are willing to pay extra to minimize waste. Companies such as Unilever and Coca-Cola are implementing measures to reduce plastic waste and promote recycling. Coca-Cola has set a target to collect and recycle all bottles and cans it sells by 2030. The World Without Waste program was launched by Coca-Cola to reach its recycling objective. Coca-Cola is striving to ensure that all its packaging is 100% recyclable by 2025 and includes 50% recycled material by 2030. By investing in sustainability, Coca-Cola can uphold consumer trust and garner support from younger generations.

One innovative solution is McCreber, a startup that constructs longer-lasting roads using recycled plastic. The plastic issue is too extensive to be completely resolved, with incineration being the sole large-scale disposal option. Research is underway on bacteria that can consume plastic, offering potential solutions. Initiatives like sea bins and inventive inventions play a role in addressing the plastic predicament.

Unplastic offers an eco-friendly option for packaging, created from brewery waste. This innovative wrapper is not only transparent and compostable but also edible and free from plastic. By taking small steps like switching to reusable cups, cloth coffee filters, and beeswax wraps instead of single-use plastic, individuals can contribute to a more sustainable future. It is essential to educate the public about the impact of plastic pollution, from organizing beach cleanups for high school students to constructing music schools out of recycled materials. There is a growing determination to seek solutions and bring about positive change.