The Plastic Crisis in the US: Solutions for a More Sustainable Future
In recent years, plastic has become an increasingly important part of everyday life in the United States. From plastics used to package food and beverages to plastics used to make everyday items, plastic is a ubiquitous material in the lives of everyday US citizens. While plastic use has made our lives much more convenient, it has also created a plastic crisis in the US that has become nearly impossible to ignore.
Pollution from plastic waste poses a massive threat to the environment, wildlife, and human health, and this pollution is anticipated to increase if drastic action is not taken soon. The United States needs to recognize the plastic crisis and the rapid response that is necessary to mitigate the damage and prevent further harm. Thankfully, there are ways to address the plastic crisis, and through action and advocacy, a more sustainable future is possible.
What is the US Plastic Crisis?
The US plastic crisis is a term that encompasses the various issues surrounding plastic waste in the US, from production to disposal. The US produces more than 34 million tons of plastic every year, and less than 10% of this plastic is recycled. Much of what ends up in landfills doesn’t decompose, and can sit for hundreds of years. This plastic waste does not stay on land—it makes its way into waterways, the ocean, and even the air. Plastic litter can be seen all over the US, from coastlines to mountain top trails, and it carries with it a multitude of impacts.
The Environmental Impacts of Plastic Pollution
The environmental impacts of plastic pollution are immense and are becoming more visible as the damage continues to mount—from plastic pollution choking rivers to mountains of garbage being dumped into the ocean. Plastic pollution not only harms the environment but also the numerous species that inhabit it. Animals often eat plastic thinking it is food, and their digestive systems become blocked, leading to death. Plastic also leeches toxic chemicals, such as phthalates, into the ocean, further devastating ocean life. These chemicals can move up the food chain and make their way into the seafood human’s eat, threatening human health as well.
The Economic Impacts of Plastic Pollution
The economic impacts of plastic pollution are becoming increasingly common as the effects become more visible. The costs associated with cleaning up plastic pollution is rising by the day as more plastic continues to accumulate. The US economy is losing an estimated $19 billion annually from plastic pollution, and a large portion of this comes from the tourism industry. Areas affected by plastic pollution appear less attractive to tourist, causing these areas to lose tourists and thus, precious economic benefits.
Solutions for a More Sustainable Future
The plastic crisis in the US is becoming increasingly urgent, but thankfully, there are ways to reduce plastic pollution and move towards a more sustainable future. The most effective solutions involve reducing the demand for plastics and investing in sustainable alternatives. Some of the potential solutions include:
Reduce:
-Encourage consumers to reduce their plastic consumption by supporting reusable, recyclable, and compostable packaging.
-Support reuse and refill movements to reduce the amount of disposable plastic products on the market.
-Provide incentives for citizens to switch to reusable bags and containers.
-Educate citizens about how to properly sort, store, and dispose of plastic waste.
Reuse:
-Reuse plastic packaging and containers before discarding them.
-Encourage citizens to buy products made with recycled materials.
-Work with businesses to develop reuse programs, such as take-back programs.
Recycle:
-Educate citizens on how to properly separate and recycle plastic waste.
-Encourage businesses to make products made with recycled materials.
-Develop new recycling technologies that can recycle plastic more efficiently and effectively.
Adopt Sustainable Alternatives
-Encourage businesses to use sustainable packaging materials, such as paper, glass, aluminum, and other compostable materials.
-Fund research and development for eco-friendly materials, such as plant-based plastics, to be used in packaging, construction, and other materials.
-Support local initiatives, such as plastic reduction ordinances, to encourage businesses to move towards more sustainable practices.
Unfortunately, plastic pollution has had a devastating impact on our planet, wildlife, and human health. The US plastic crisis is growing more urgent every day, and without drastic action in the near future, the damage will become irreparable. Thankfully, there are tangible solutions that can address the plastic crisis and move us towards a more sustainable future. Reducing demand for plastic, reusing what is already available, and investing in sustainable alternatives are imperative to create a more environmentally-friendly future and protect our health and planet.