Plastic pollution is a global crisis affecting every corner of our planet, from the highest peaks to the deepest oceans. It infiltrates our environment, endangering wildlife and human health alike. The first semi-synthetic polymer was created in 1869, and since then, plastic has become a staple in consumer goods.
Plastic production has increased from 5 million metric tons in 1950 to 359 million metric tons in 2018.
Plastic pollution disproportionately affects marginalized populations in South America, Asia, and Africa, primarily comprising the Global South.
The first semi-synthetic polymer was created in 1869, driven by the demand for alternatives to natural resources like ivory and metal. Plastics gained popularity during World War II as a cheap and versatile alternative to traditional materials.
Plastic production has increased from 5 million metric tons in 1950 to 359 million metric tons in 2018.
Various factors contribute to the proliferation of plastic waste, including industrial processes and improper waste disposal. Plastic pollution is further compounded by systemic inequalities and environmental injustices, disproportionately impacting marginalized communities in the Global South.
Plastic pollution affects everyone, but it disproportionately impacts marginalized populations in South America, Asia, and Africa, primarily comprising the Global South.
Plastic production has increased from 5 million metric tons in 1950 to 359 million metric tons in 2018.
Plastic pollution poses a significant threat to both wildlife and human health. Microplastics and nano-plastics, originating from the breakdown of larger plastic items, have become pervasive pollutants in the environment, leading to toxicological risks for organisms at all levels of the food chain.
Chemicals from microplastics, such as bisphenol A (BPA), can leach into an organism's bloodstream, posing serious health risks.
Plastic production has increased from 5 million metric tons in 1950 to 359 million metric tons in 2018.
Relying on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to create real change is naive. True solutions to plastic pollution involve listening to and empowering communities impacted by environmental injustice.
Only 14% of plastic waste is collected for recycling purposes, and only 2% of the plastic from this process has been effectively recycled.
Plastic pollution disproportionately affects communities of color and low-income groups, leading to higher rates of asthma, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases.
Spreading awareness and enacting legislative policies are crucial steps in combating plastic pollution. International agreements, such as the banning of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and aerosols, have shown the potential for meaningful change.