Is The Use Of Plastic Getting Worse? Your Research Preview

Topic: “Is uses of plastic getting worse?†Your research project essay will need to be between eight (full) to ten pages in length. You must address an issue that has at least two sides (email me for topics if you're not sure) Effectively address the rhetorical situation - audience, purpose, context articulate a clear position regarding the issue and argue that position with logical reasons adequately develop the argument using credible support (research) acknowledge the opposing viewpoints and employ counterargument or concession identify and explain the assumptions, contexts, and consequences of the various positions. Utilize at least 10 credible sources - from scholarly databases, books, etc. (no google .com sources) MLA formatting Read and carefully follow all of the guidelines for MLA on the purdue OWL website. You will need to incorporate 10 outside sources (Note: dictionary.com does not constitute a source. into the essay—use paraphrase and/or direct quotations). From these sources at least 4 need to be books and the rest may be database articles, documentaries, etc. You will need a Works Cited page at the end of your essay that includes the 8 – 10 sources. Follow these style specifics: Only write in third person Do not use contractions Follow all MLA guidelines

Paper For Above instruction

The escalating environmental concerns surrounding plastic use have become a prominent issue in contemporary society. The question, “Is the usage of plastic getting worse?” warrants a comprehensive examination of the various dimensions of plastic consumption, its environmental impacts, economic factors, and potential solutions. This research paper investigates both sides of the argument, analyzing whether plastic usage is truly increasing and, if so, whether such escalation is justified or detrimental. The purpose of this essay is to present a nuanced view of the complexities involved, addressing the rhetorical situation by considering the audience’s ethical concerns, scientific evidence, policy implications, and societal behaviors.

The proliferation of plastic products has undeniably contributed to environmental degradation, biodiversity loss, and pollution. Critics argue that the rise in plastic consumption exacerbates these issues, citing data on oceanic microplastics, landfill overflow, and wildlife entrapment (Jambeck et al., 2015). Many environmentalists assert that plastic’s durability and convenience have led to a throwaway culture that accelerates ecological harm. Conversely, proponents suggest that innovations in biodegradable plastics and recycling technologies can mitigate these effects while emphasizing the importance of plastic’s economic utility and consumer convenience.

One side of the argument emphasizes that the trend of increasing plastic use reflects consumer demand for inexpensive, versatile materials used in packaging, electronics, and medical supplies. These applications support economic growth and improve quality of life, especially in healthcare and technology sectors (Hopewell, Dvorak, & Kosior, 2009). However, this increase has led to mounting waste management challenges, with an estimated 300 million tons of plastic produced annually worldwide, much of which is improperly disposed of or ends up polluting oceans (Geyer, Jambeck, & Law, 2017). This perspective views the worsening of plastic use as an environmental threat that must be addressed through stricter regulations and innovative waste reduction strategies.

Conversely, some argue that the focus on plastic reduction overlooks ongoing technological advancements. Breakthroughs in biodegradable plastics, enzymatic recycling, and sustainable packaging suggest that the problem can be managed rather than solely condemned (Ragaert, Van Geem, & De Pauw, 2019). They posit that plastic’s role in medical supplies during health crises, such as pandemics, and its necessity in preserving food safety underscores its indispensable nature. Furthermore, economic concerns about the cost and feasibility of replacing plastics with alternative materials raise questions about the practicality of drastic reductions in usage.

The assumption that plastic use will inevitably continue to rise is supported by industrial growth, urbanization, and increasing global population. These factors contribute to higher demand for plastic products across various sectors. However, the consequences of incessant plastic consumption include environmental contamination, human health risks from microplastics entering the food chain, and the economic burden of cleaning polluted ecosystems (Thompson et al., 2009). Understanding these assumptions and consequences demonstrates that the problem requires holistic solutions balancing technological innovation, policy frameworks, and behavioral change.

Addressing this issue involves acknowledging the dual necessity of reducing plastic waste and leveraging the benefits of plastic. Policy measures such as banning single-use plastics, incentivizing recycling, and funding research into sustainable materials are critical. Public awareness campaigns can help shift consumer behaviors towards more sustainable practices. Businesses must also adopt corporate social responsibility strategies to minimize plastic footprints while preserving economic stability.

In conclusion, the question of whether the use of plastic is getting worse involves complex considerations of environmental impact, economic necessity, technological innovation, and societal habits. While evidence indicates a significant increase in plastic consumption with detrimental environmental consequences, advancements in alternative materials and recycling present opportunities for mitigation. Ultimately, addressing the worsening trend requires coordinated efforts among policymakers, industry leaders, scientists, and consumers to develop sustainable solutions that balance economic needs with ecological preservation.

References

• Geyer, R., Jambeck, J., & Law, K. L. (2017). Production, use, and fate of plastic waste. Science Advances, 3(7), e1700782.
• Hopewell, J., Dvorak, R., & Kosior, E. (2009). Plastics recycling: Challenges and opportunities. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, 364(1526), 2115–2126.
• Jambeck, J. R., Geyer, R., Wilcox, C., et al. (2015). Plastic waste inputs from land into the ocean. Science, 347(6223), 768–771.
• Ragaert, P., Van Geem, K., & De Pauw, L. (2019). Mechanical and chemical recycling of solid plastic waste. Waste Management, 102, 45–56.
• Thompson, R. C., Swan, S. H., Moore, C. J., & vom Saal, F. S. (2009). Our plastic age. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, 364(1526), 1973–1976.