Copy this CollectionThis collection aims to show that across the world, people are trying, and often succeeding, to decrease plastic waste in our environment. All of the articles in this collection fall into one of three categories that are well-known in the plastic waste world: reduce, reuse, and recycle. Most of the articles presented discussed how people are reusing or recycling found plastic waste into new things that are meant to help improve their communities. Around the world, communities are turning their plastic waste into anything from asphalt-paved roads to doormats. The remaining articles discussed ways in which companies and countries are reducing their plastic waste from the start, through either a ban on plastic or the use of biodegradable alternatives. Plastic waste not only pollutes the environment and harms wildlife, but it also poses a threat to human health. The chemicals in many common plastic products are very harmful to humans, and the longer these plastics sit in our landfills and waterways, the more of those chemicals are able to leech out into our environment. It is in our best interest, both for ourselves and for the natural world, to eliminate plastic waste. A common theme throughout these articles is that eliminating plastic waste is helping to create jobs, strengthen communities, improve people's livelihoods, and eliminate a slew of other socio-environmental issues. These plastic waste reduction projects are creating more jobs for people and places that need them the most, and in turn people and communities are brought together to strive toward a larger goal. While they are making money and building their community, they know that they are improving their mental and physical health, as long as those of everyone in their community.
Collection
Plastic Waste Solutions
Mya Cusson
Denison University
Granville, OH
Student
