The next U.S. president could either champion policies to curb plastic production or embrace industry-friendly regulations, shaping environmental and public health outcomes nationwide.
Joseph Winters reports for Grist.
In short:
- Beyond Plastics advocates for a presidential commitment to reduce plastic production and tackle pollution, offering a 27-point plan for legislative and executive action.
- Key recommendations include a moratorium on new plastic and chemical recycling facilities, financial restrictions on petrochemical aid and federal support for reuse infrastructure.
- Environmental advocates warn that a Trump administration might reverse these policies, potentially exiting international agreements on plastics, while a Harris administration is expected to continue Biden-era reforms.
Key quote:
“We need our leaders to guard against industry’s false solutions, including against plastic recycling.”
— Erica Cirino, communications manager for Plastic Pollution Coalition
Why this matters:
Plastics pose long-term environmental hazards, from microplastic contamination to chemical pollution in vulnerable communities. Strong federal action could support sustainable alternatives, while regulatory rollback may deepen pollution and global waste issues.
Read more: A Harris presidency could tackle plastic pollution
