plastic pollution

U.S. Signals New Support for Global Plastics Reduction, Reports Say

U.S. Signals New Support for Global Plastics Reduction, Reports Say

The U.S. has shifted its policy position and is now in favor of supporting limitations on global plastics, Reuters confirmed. As reported by Grist, the Biden administration announced in closed-door meetings this week that it supported global efforts to limit plastic pollution via the United Nations’ plastic treaty. Previously, the U.S. had held the stance […]

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    Massachusetts State Senate Passes Plastics Ban

    Massachusetts State Senate Passes Plastics Ban

    A ban on single-use plastic items like bags and straws is closer to becoming reality in Massachusetts after the state Senate approved a broad bill addressing plastics last Thursday. The Senate passed the bill by 38-2. The ban, which has now moved to the state House of Representatives, would ban plastic bags at retailers, charge […]

    Scientists Detect Microplastics in Testicular Tissue

    Scientists Detect Microplastics in Testicular Tissue

    Researchers at the University of New Mexico have found concentrations of microplastics in the testicular tissue of humans and dogs. The findings raise concerns over how these particles can impact the reproductive system. The project started when study lead Xiaozhong Yu, a professor at the university’s College of Nursing, spoke with colleague Matthew Campen, professor […]

    Researchers Develop a Plastic That Digests Itself

    Researchers Develop a Plastic That Digests Itself

    A team led by researchers at the University of California San Diego have developed a type of biodegradable plastic that can begin digesting itself when it makes contact with soil or compost.  The soft plastic material is a type of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), commonly found in memory foam products and soft products like cushions, floormats […]

    Negotiators Divided as UN Plastics Treaty Talks Begin in Ottawa

    Negotiators Divided as UN Plastics Treaty Talks Begin in Ottawa

    From April 23 to 29, the United Nations Environment Programme’s Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee is holding its fourth session to develop a legally binding international treaty on plastic pollution in Ottawa, Canada. However, countries are divided over what the contents of the landmark agreement should be. “This process is without doubt an accelerated and ambitious one, […]

    From Cleanups to Concerts, EcoWatch’s Guide to Earth Day 2024

    From Cleanups to Concerts, EcoWatch’s Guide to Earth Day 2024

    By Cristen Hemingway Jaynes and Olivia Rosane This year marks the 54th year of Earth Day! What better way to celebrate than to explore opportunities to join others in helping combat the climate crisis and make our planet cleaner, greener and more sustainable? Here are a few suggestions to get you started. 1. Square Up […]