Canada Pollution Assignmnet

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School

Dav Sr. Public School *

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201

Subject

Economics

Date

Nov 24, 2024

Type

pdf

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Uploaded by KidWildcatPerson631

Canada's Plastic Dilemma: Economic Implications and Environmental Misconceptions Economic Costs and Mismanagement of Plastic Waste: Canada's plastic waste management system is in a state of crisis. As the plastic industry contributes significantly to the Canadian economy, generating about $35 billion in sales and employing 93,000 workers, it faces a paradox. The country generates an excessive amount of plastic waste, much of which ends up in landfills. This waste incurs a considerable cost to the economy not only in terms of lost material value but also due to the expenses associated with waste management and environmental clean-up. The Environmental Impact of Canada's Plastic Consumption: Canadians produce a staggering amount of plastic waste, estimated at 3.3 million tonnes annually. A mere 9% of this plastic waste is recycled, with the rest ending up in landfills, incinerated, or becoming environmental litter. Despite the common belief that Canada's waste management systems are robust, the overwhelming majority of plastics are not appropriately managed, contributing to a growing environmental crisis. Exporting Plastic Waste: Canada has been exporting about 12% of its plastic waste, ostensibly for recycling, to countries in Southeast Asia. However, these countries often lack the infrastructure to handle this influx, leading to environmental pollution abroad. As global awareness rises, many of these nations are now rejecting waste imports, pushing Canada to reassess its recycling strategies and international waste trade practices. The Myth of Plastic Waste Being a Non-Canadian Issue: There is a pervasive myth that plastic pollution is not a Canadian issue. However, evidence shows that Canada is a significant contributor to the problem, with large amounts of plastic ending up in oceans, which are shared global resources. This contribution is not limited by geography; plastic waste can travel from land to sea, regardless of where it is initially disposed. The Role of Single-Use Plastics and Bioplastics: Over one-third of plastics in Canada are used for single-use items, exacerbating the waste problem. Switching to bioplastics isn't a simple solution either, as they are resource-intensive, contribute to disposal confusion, and can contaminate the recycling stream if not properly sorted. Cleaning Up Existing Ocean Plastics: While there's a call to focus on cleaning the oceanic plastic, experts argue that this approach is not sustainable or economical. It's crucial to address the root cause—preventing plastic from reaching oceans in the first place—rather than just dealing with the aftermath, which is both costly and logistically challenging. Shared Responsibility and Global Action:

The responsibility for tackling plastic pollution lies with all Canadians, including the government, corporations, and individuals. It requires both national actions, like stronger legislation and regulation to limit single-use plastics, and international cooperation, as ocean currents do not respect borders. Collective efforts to adopt alternatives and apply pressure for systemic change are essential in this global fight against plastic pollution. Conclusion: Canada’s role in the plastic pollution crisis is undeniable, and both the economic and environmental stakes are high. The nation must confront its own misconceptions and take decisive action towards sustainable waste management practices, stronger regulations on plastic production and use, and international leadership in the reduction of plastic pollution. The path forward requires a clear vision and a united effort to protect not only the country's economic interests but also the global environment.

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