Litter can take the form of many different types of materials. The most damaging material, though, is plastic. In order to gain more insight into the plastic litter and waste problem, I dove into learning about the issue through a PBS Hawaii Special about Plastic Waste.
This special brought four experts onto a moderated panel discussion about plastic waste and litter on the island of Hawaii and how people can work towards improving the current situation. Among the experts were representatives from the City of Honolulu, Plastic Free Honolulu, Surfrider Foundation, and Island Plastic Bag Incorporated. They currently collect plastic via curbside programs and separate plastic materials. More often than not these materials are sent overseas. However, China passed internal regulation that restricts foreign waste that limits the amount of waste exports from the U.S. This then shifts the burden to countries like Vietnam and Thailand.
The island has seen less bags being littered, but it is a small insight into the problem of litter and waste as plastic bags are not the only plastics being disposed of (i.e. straws, polystyrene). Bag bans on the island have accounted for less bags, but still see plastic utensils and bottle caps during beach cleanups. They mentioned how it is not ethical to produce products that are used for 10 mins and then discarded.
Although there are some uses plastics are needed for such as medical uses for non-contamination, it is still wise to weigh the benefits and costs of that use. It is important to reduce at source and reduce consumption and think about how your actions impact the community and planet.
It is necessary to look at our consumer habits and that producers are more accountable for the disposal process of their products through looking at new plastic technologies. We must protect nature and live in harmony with Earth by adopting circular economy practices and become concious of our plastic usage and disposal.
Review: This Hawaii-specific PBS special brings in experts from the islands to weigh in on the plastic disposal and littering problem plaguing the world today. Listen to this hour-long panel to learn more about the nuances of plastic littering and disposal. ★★★★★
Watch the PBS Hawaii Special: Plastic Waste here.