So we've banned petroleum based single use plastics like cups, plates, knives me forks ... even straws. That's a good thing right??? Of course it is. I don't think anyone would reasonably say that plastic is the enemy, but our over reliance is apparent. Plastic is everywhereand allows an enhanced quality of life I can't imagine without it.
But our attitude to single use items hasn't changed, so what have we achieved? I see to say the net effect at a glance is zero.
I went to a concert recently and was saddened to see that there was absolutely no change in the amount of garbage we produce. Yes the kind of material has changed, but the volume hasn't. And when we dig into the details, most of the new materials being used do not decomposed in the conditions presented in the landfill.
What was even more troubling, for me at least, was when I saw an event sponsor sharing out hundreds if not thousands of inflatable branded knick knacks, which of course were left behind at the end of the event. Their function was to dominate the many photos at the event to keep the brand image alive and strong, but in reality its the same petroleum based single use plastics we're trying to fight.
What is our end game? Is it to reduce the amount of single use items coming into the country? Is it to reduce the volume of garbage hitting the landfills? Is it to reduce the garbage missing the landfill and getting into the natural environment and choking off wildlife. Or is there no real plan and we are just shooting in the dark?
