Global Learning (GL) Assignment — This Assignment Provides ✓ Solved

Global Learning (GL) Assignment This assignment provides a

This assignment provides a brief background on materials use and waste management. There are three topics provided. Please select one topic only.

Topic 1: Environmental challenges

Topic 2: Persistent waste materials in the environment (e.g., plastics, e-waste)

The GL assignment should be submitted via Canvas before the last day of the semester. Assignment: Select only one of the topics and discuss the issue and develop an overview of the problem. Your discussion should address the environmental problem, estimated quantities, materials, and other relevant information. Please limit your report to 2-3 pages (appendices are OK) including figures, tables, calculations, references.

Paper For Above Instructions

Waste management is a critical component of environmental sustainability, especially in an era marked by increased consumption and environmental degradation. The issue of persistent waste materials, particularly plastics and e-waste, represents a significant challenge for ecosystems, human health, and future generations. In this paper, we will provide a detailed overview of these two waste categories, focusing on their environmental impacts, the estimated quantities generated, and potential management strategies.

Environmental Impact of Plastic Waste

Plastics are ubiquitous in modern society, used in everything from packaging to consumer goods. However, their durability and resistance to degradation lead to significant environmental challenges. According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP, 2021), approximately 300 million tons of plastic are produced globally each year, and only about 9% is recycled. The vast majority of plastic waste ends up in landfills or the environment, where it can take hundreds of years to decompose.

The impact of plastic pollution is profound. Marine ecosystems are particularly affected, with estimates suggesting that by 2025, there could be more plastic than fish in the ocean by weight (World Economic Forum, 2016). Marine species ingest plastic debris, leading to health issues, reduced reproductive success, and increased mortality rates. Additionally, plastics break down into microplastics, which are ingested by a wide range of marine organisms, entering the food chain and potentially impacting human health (Geyer, Jambeck, & Law, 2017).

Environmental Impact of E-Waste

Electronic waste, or e-waste, encompasses discarded electrical and electronic devices. With the rapid advancement of technology, e-waste is the fastest-growing waste stream worldwide, with an estimated 53.6 million metric tons generated globally in 2019 (Forti et al., 2020). This trend is expected to continue, driven by the short lifespan of consumer electronics and increased consumption.

The improper disposal of e-waste poses serious environmental risks. Many electronic devices contain hazardous materials, such as lead, mercury, and cadmium, which can leach into the soil and water, posing health risks to humans and wildlife (Balde et al., 2015). Moreover, the recycling of e-waste is often performed in informal sectors with limited safety measures, exacerbating the risk of exposure to harmful substances.

Estimated Quantities and Trends

Understanding the quantities of these persistent materials is essential for effective waste management. As mentioned, global plastic production reaches approximately 300 million tons annually (UNEP, 2021). This waste accumulates in various environments, with 8 million tons entering the oceans each year (Jambeck et al., 2015). In contrast, the e-waste generated worldwide amounted to 53.6 million metric tons in 2019, with projections suggesting it could reach 74 million metric tons by 2030 (Forti et al., 2020).

Management Strategies for Plastic Waste

Addressing plastic waste requires a multifaceted approach. First, improving recycling programs and infrastructure is critical. Countries such as Sweden have achieved recycling rates above 99% through robust waste management systems (Linder et al., 2020). Second, encouraging manufacturers to adopt circular economy principles can minimize plastic production and waste. For instance, companies can design products with recyclable materials, thus reducing the environmental impact.

Education and awareness campaigns are also vital to changing consumer behavior towards plastic use. Initiatives that promote alternatives to single-use plastics can help reduce overall plastic consumption (Thompson et al., 2009).

Management Strategies for E-Waste

Effective management of e-waste is equally crucial. Establishing formal e-waste recycling systems can ensure that hazardous materials are appropriately handled, reducing environmental risks. Globally, countries should develop regulations that promote responsible e-waste recycling, such as the European Union's Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE Directive), which aims to minimize the environmental impact of e-waste (European Commission, 2019).

Furthermore, increasing consumer awareness about proper disposal methods and the importance of recycling electronics is essential to tackling this growing problem. Educational campaigns can inform individuals about the environmental impact of improper disposal and the availability of e-waste recycling programs in their communities (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 2021).

Conclusion

The issues of plastic and e-waste represent significant environmental challenges that require immediate and coordinated action. By improving management strategies, promoting recycling, and fostering consumer awareness, we can mitigate the environmental impacts of these persistent waste materials. As global populations and consumption patterns continue to rise, addressing these challenges will be essential for ensuring a sustainable future.

References

• Balde, C. P., Wang, F., Kuehr, R., & Bel, G. (2015). The Global E-waste Monitor – 2014. United Nations University.
• European Commission. (2019). Directive 2012/19/EU on waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE).
• Forti, V., Baldé, C. P., Kuehr, R., & Bel, G. (2020). The Global E-waste Monitor – 2020. United Nations University.
• Geyer, R., Jambeck, J. R., & Law, K. L. (2017). Production, use, and fate of all plastics ever made. Science Advances, 3(7), e1700782.
• Jambeck, J. R., Geyer, R., Wilcox, C., et al. (2015). Plastic waste inputs from land into the ocean. Science, 347(6223), 768-771.
• Linder, M., Williander, M., & Melin, H. (2020). The role of branding in plastic recycling: What role does branding play? Business Strategy and the Environment, 29(8), 3534-3540.
• Thompson, R. C., Olsen, Y., Mitchell, R. P., et al. (2009). Lost at sea: Where is all the plastic? Science, 304(5672), 838.
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (2021). E-waste management and recycling.
• United Nations Environment Programme. (2021). From Pollution to Solution: A Global Assessment of Marine Litter and Plastic Pollution.
• World Economic Forum. (2016). The New Plastics Economy: Rethinking the future of plastics.