Earth Day: Planet v. Plastics
Elba Cortes, Fox Rothschild, LLP

Founded more than 50 years ago, EarthDay.org has mobilized billions of people across the globe in an effort to protect our planet. This year’s theme is “Planet v. Plastics.”

Plastics are everywhere, they clog land, air and water. A major concern with plastics is the chemical additives they contain, which pose adverse effects on both human and marine life. We ingest and inhale these additives, and once plastic has entered your body it will exist there permanently.

When plastics are dumped into the ocean, sea life ingests microplastics, which we then consume. Microplastics damage human cells causing lung disease and birth defects among many consequences.

Consider communities that have plastic manufacturing plants. One such community is the lower Mississippi River, which has the highest cancer rate in the U.S. These plants are mostly found in marginalized communities causing human rights and environmental issues, and injustice. Children, infants, and even fetuses in the womb, are the most vulnerable. Plastic exposure has been linked to birth complications, childhood cancer, lung growth and lung ability.

Some of these microplastics are not even identifiable which makes it very difficult to know the actual harm they are causing.  One particular substance found in plastic containers is BPA (Bisphenol A). This substance can leak into food and drinks which is one of the main reasons why you should not microwave your food in plastic containers.

Scientists have found that these chemicals can alter metabolism and hormone function. Studies have shown that they have been linked to insulin resistance, high blood pressure and cholesterol levels, causing even further damage.

Realistically, it is probably impossible to completely discontinue the use of plastics; especially if the government won’t ban them. So, what can we as consumers do? Limit the use of plastics, particularly single-use plastics to avoid further exposure. Being conscientious about the products that we buy (and, more specifically, the containers or packaging that they come in, does go a long way.) Another easy solution is to vacuum often which will reduce the amount of microplastics we ingest.

Ultimately, legislative action will go further than what any of us, as individuals, can do. Please consider signing this petition to end single-use plastics in the U.S. by 2030.