The problem of plastic

Plastic Pollution

We all know plastic pollution is an issue, but let’s layout a few facts:

• There are 150 million metric tons of plastic in our oceans

• About 10 million tons are added each year

• Some countries are dealing with an overflow of trash with no real solution to stop that

• If plastic use were a country, it’d be the fifth largest emitter of greenhouse gases in the world.

marine life impact

“More than 220 marine species have been shown to ingest plastic debris. Plastic can get trapped in an animal's stomach causing ulceration, making them feel full and stopping them eating real food. This can lead to starvation and potentially death. Toxic chemicals can also transfer from microplastic to animals that eat them, causing further harm – another route for these chemicals to enter the food chain.” - Nurdle Hunt

Public Health + fencline communities

A 2019 report from the Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA) found that 79% of the 73 incinerators in the US are located in BIPOC communities. Burning plastic is not only expensive due to the high costs to maintain and operate incinerators, it also releases heavy metals like lead and mercury directly into the air. This is a major human health risk and results in increased cases of asthma, cardiovascular disease and resulting mortality." (Surfrider Foundation)

Plastic manufacturing gets in the way of our fisheries and livelihoods, facilities uproot our homes, and the chemicals extracted from oil to make plastic lead to cancer.

Big Plastic is making billions of dollars while simultaneously destroying lives of nearby communities. You have in one neighborhood 40% child poverty and Exxon right across the street pulling in $40 billion,” said Anne Rolfes, founder of the Louisiana Bucket Brigade.