Solving the Plastics Problem: Moving the U.S. from Recycling to Reduction
Diane Sicotte, Jessica L. Seamon
Abstract
In this Policy Brief, we argue that current U.S. waste disposal strategies (recycling, displacement and disposal) do not address waste reduction, are perceived as socially unfair, and cannot keep pace with the ever-increasing proportion of plastic waste discarded. Factors including low demand for recycled plastic, recent bans on importation of foreign plastic waste, cheap feedstocks and an increase in the production of single-use plastic items are converging to worsen the problem of plastic waste. Plastic waste is ubiquitous in the environment, and threatens human health, wildlife, and ecosystems. We discuss how current policies developed, and examine four major policy strategies used by the European Union (product bans, extended producer responsibility laws, taxes and fees, and ecolabeling). Finally, we provide recommendations as to which would be most effective in moving the U.S. away from its overreliance on recycling and disposal, and toward reduction of the amount of plastic waste generated.