Plastic Pollution: How Humans Are Turning the World into Plastic

Provided by: Kurzgesagt - In a Nutshell |Published on: April 27, 2021

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Synopsis

This video from Kurzgesagt - In a Nutshell includes the history of plastic, a description of different plastics and their uses, marine pollution, microplastics, biomagnification, and plastics found in humans.
The video concludes with observations on the complicated role of plastic and specific action items to reduce plastic pollution.

Subjects: Biology, Health

Authors: Kurzgesagt - In a Nutshell

Region: Global

Languages: English

Positives

The video offers a nuanced view instead of just claiming to "ban all plastics." (For example, plastic is used in life-saving medical equipment and to keep food fresh in places that lack robust refrigeration networks.)
Beautiful animations bring this video to life.

Prerequisites

Differentiation & Implementation

Social studies or civics students can research specific legislation banning plastic. Many municipal governments in the United States have plastic bag bans or similar legislation to reduce plastic pollution.
Students can create a campaign in their school or community to ban single-use plastics. Campaigns could include specific items like water bottles, plastic bags, or balloons. More robust campaigns would change systems, such as the removal of vending machines, changing plastic-intensive holiday traditions such as birthdays, Halloween, or Valentine's Day, or changing systems in the cafeteria.
Students can watch this similar video to further their understanding.
Art students can watch this video before analyzing murals called "Sea of Plastic" or "Plastic Culture."

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All resources can be used for your educational purposes with proper attribution to the content provider.

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