Plastics, Pollution, Evolution
PRDS | Posted on |
Plastics, Pollution, Evolution
The Economist guides us, the BBC encourages us but are you willing to go to any lengths?This is a call to follow Trump’s example and use our trade to our advantage, or rather the advantage of the world.The Economist highlights the quantitative issue of plastic recycling. It finishes by rightly saying five Asian countries are responsible for more free plastic pollution (that is likely to be ocean bound) than the rest of the world put together.We need to do it for our planet.
But is that a fair answer, and what is the solution. Well if we are a globalised economy we ALL have a responsibility, and cheap ocean disposal however it arises is part of this.We cannot simply point a finger.Can we use our buying power to influence changes quicker?One possibility is understanding what recycling systems a country has in place. Do they recycle plastic bottles or stretch wrap? If so, in what percentages?Businesses do respond to clear indications from consumers. We need therefore to be forever giving them clear indications.It is not just about how we recycle post-consumer plastics in the UK or Europe, but how to apply pressure on corporations around the globe.But what about us? Are we recycling everything we can, or are we reliant on sending dirty plastics for recycling to the same five Asian countries?
We need a plastics pollution evolution.
The developed world needs to- Pay the right price to segregate and recycle its own materials.
- Engage locally with government and business to positively promote recycling infrastructure.
- Stop buying products from companies based in countries that refuse to do the same.