Our Plastic Problem and How to Solve It

Plastic pollution is a global problem that defies a singular solution. Our Plastic Problem and How to Solve It considers plastic's harm to the environment, from its production to its disposal, and offers a spectrum of solutions that require action by local and federal governments, businesses and non-profits, and individuals. Using specific examples and case studies, the book describes the history and chemistry of plastic, illustrates its harms, and points toward specific legislation and policies to offer concrete solutions. Plastic pollution is ubiquitous and has impacts on soil, food, air, and water. To solve our plastic problem, collaboration across disciplines will be critical; innovations in science, law, and design will be essential. The book demonstrates the need to approach environmental problems from an interdisciplinary lens, and will benefit anyone interested in learning more about the harms and solutions associated with plastic pollution.

Part I. Plastic in the Environment: 1. The proliferation of plastic; 2. Measuring plastic: 'You can't manage what you don't measure.'; 3. Plastic as a pollutant: A revolutionary material becomes a global threat; Part II. Multimodal Approaches to Solving Our Plastic Problem: 4. Federal efforts; 5. State and local efforts; 6. International efforts; 7. Business, NGO and individual efforts; Part III. Innovation and Design: 8. Plastic alternatives: bioplastics and material; 9. Plastic's end: recycling, removal and revaluing; 10. The circular economy.

Sarah J. Morath is a lawyer, a writer, an educator, and a scientist. Her interdisciplinary scholarship has appeared in a variety of publications and is widely read and cited. She is the editor of From Farm to Fork: Perspectives on Growing Sustainable Food Systems in the Twenty-First Century (University of Akron Press, 2016). Professor Morath holds degrees from Vassar College, Yale University, and the University of Montana School of Law. She is currently a law professor at Wake Forest University School of Law.