Introduction
Plastic pollution levels in the ocean are growing at an alarming rate. According to Rhodes (2018), “150 Mt [of plastic waste] reckoned to have been released into the oceans over time” (p. 207). The issue lies in the inherent mismanagement of this waste and limited resources like oil; production is used to manufacture plastic commodities – predicted to rise to 20% by 2050” (Rhodes, 2018, p. 208). Increased production of virgin plastic also leads to heightened levels of other types of pollution, including air, water, and soil pollution. Despite the apparent need to reduce the production of plastic, many regulators cannot agree on a definite list of solutions to combat this plastic epidemic. This division happens mostly due to the lobbying efforts of the large producers and consequent contradicting messages. Despite the large scale of operation, many recycling and cleaning efforts deal only with a minuscule amount of waste. Therefore, to preserve the resources and reduce pollution, it is essential to resist the capitalistic urge to consume and produce more and, among other innovative solutions, scale down the volume of the virgin plastic generated.
Alternatives to Plastic
The first and most obvious solution to combat excessive plastic production is to replace plastic with other materials. There are various alternatives, including but not limited to stainless steel, glass, platinum silicone, beeswax-coated cloth, natural fiber cloth, wood, bamboo, pottery, and other ceramics. However, the challenge in adopting this solution lies in the higher upfront costs of these materials and the need to invest more in redesigning the production. Therefore, the regulators must set up the framework of the punishments and incentives for the producers to comply with the changes. According to Prata et al. (2019), the first step could be “imposing ecological requirements, labeling of harmful substances, or taxes varying with product recyclability” (p. 4). In terms of incentives, the corporations could be given subsidies or other financial benefits for using recycled materials in their production. Using recycled material can be extremely beneficial for the environment; a “5% increase in recycling of plastic packaging of legumes would reduce 7% of the global warming potential” (Prata, 2019, p. 4). This approach could further lead to rewarding green initiatives, boosting their competitiveness. Moreover, according to Prata et al. (2019), these businesses can even be awarded to be recognized for their efforts by the public, attracting more eco-conscious customers. These actions are one example of a successful strategy to implement a switch to alternatives to plastic and consequently reduce its production.
Improvement in the Design of Plastic Goods and Its Production Processes
The strategies mentioned above can also be used to encourage the producers to improve the design of their plastic goods to ensure their longevity is somewhat comparable to their alternatives. However, another tool essential for this solution is Life cycle assessment (LCA). Prata et al. (2019) describe LCA as “a tool to assess the environmental impact of a product or process from the cradle to the grave, limited to a specific case study, functional unit, boundaries, and environmental indicators…” (p. 4). Examples of eco-design improvements include sturdier and thicker plastic, the better configuration of packaging, and eco-friendly means of transportation. Thus, if supported by other strategies to ensure the use of plastic alternatives in production mentioned above, LCA and improvement in the production design can have a massive effect on the current environmental situation.
Conclusion
The answer to whether recycling or reducing plastic production is better for dealing with the current plastic epidemic is inconclusive. The solutions should integrate different sectors, involve various stakeholders across international borders, and ultimately be enforced by the governments. Despite the corporate assurances, a simple clean-up cannot solve the issues, no matter the scale. Therefore, recycling and reduction must be implemented simultaneously, supported by other innovative technologies, and focused on diminishing consumption.
References
Prata, J. C., Silva, A. L. P., Da Costa, J. P., Mouneyrac, C., Walker, T. R., Duarte, A. C., & Rocha-Santos, T. (2019). Solutions and integrated strategies for the control and mitigation of plastic and microplastic pollution. International Journal Of Environmental Research And Public Health, 16(13), 2411.
Rhodes, C. J. (2018). Plastic pollution and potential solutions. Science Progress, 101(3), 207-260.