Breaking the Plastic Habit

Plastic has become one of the most enduring symbols of modern convenience—and one of its most damaging legacies. Despite decades of recycling campaigns and increased public awareness, plastic production has continued to soar. In 2021 alone, the world produced over 380 million tons of plastic, and consumption is expected to more than double by 2050.

Yet, only 9% of all plastic ever made has been recycled. The rest ends up in landfills, incinerators, or worse—polluting our oceans and communities. And while recycling may feel like a solution, recent studies suggest it might actually be making things worse.

Key Takeaways:

Recycling Isn’t Enough

We’ve been told for decades that recycling is the answer. But the truth is far more complicated. Most plastic packaging—especially the thin, flexible kind used for bags and wrappers—is not recyclable in practice. And even when plastic is recycled, it often comes back more toxic than it started.

Recycled plastics have been found to contain over 13,000 chemicals, many of which are harmful to human health and the environment. As Greenpeace’s Graham Forbes puts it, “The plastics industry continues to promote recycling as the solution. But this report shows that the toxicity of plastic actually increases with recycling.”

Plastic Pollution Is a Justice Issue

Beyond the environmental damage, plastic pollution is also a serious issue of social and environmental justice. The production and disposal of plastic disproportionately harm marginalized and BIPOC communities, especially those located near manufacturing plants and waste facilities.

Toxic emissions from plastic production and incineration poison the air and water, putting the health of these communities at serious risk. In the U.S., nearly 16% of plastic waste is incinerated, a process that releases dangerous pollutants—again, often in low-income areas.

Small Actions Create Big Waves

The problem may be massive, but the solutions start small. Every choice to reduce plastic use is a step toward a healthier, more just planet. Here are a few practical ways to reduce your personal plastic footprint:

• Shop consciously: Seek out plastic-free or compostable alternatives whenever possible.
• Bring your own bags: Keep a few reusable bags in your car or backpack.
• Refuse single-use plastics: Say no to plastic straws, utensils, and water bottles—carry reusables instead.
• Ditch the microplastics: Use your own mug, skip glitter, and avoid products with microbeads.
• Switch it up in the kitchen: Replace plastic cutting boards with bamboo, wood, or pressed paper options.

Go Beyond Individual Action

Personal choices matter—but collective action is essential. Support policy changes, businesses, and organizations working toward real solutions:

• Sign the petition for a strong Global Plastics Treaty.
• Support plastic-free businesses and advocate for sustainable packaging in your community.
• Follow and donate to organizations leading the charge, like: Surfrider Foundation, Plastic Oceans, Plastic Pollution Coalition, and 5 Gyres

Learn More and Stay Informed

For those wanting to dig deeper into the plastic crisis and the policies that can change our future, here are some essential resources:

• OECD Global Plastics Outlook (2022)
• UNEP Turning Off the Tap Report (2021)
• IPEN Toxicity in Recycled Plastics Report (2023)
• Beyond Plastics: The New Coal Report (2021)
• Greenpeace Plastic Pollution Resources