Confused about recycling? It’s not your fault - Shannon Odell
299,863 Views
3,713 Questions Answered
TEDEd Animation
Let’s Begin…
If you’ve ever looked at the bottom of a disposable bottle or cup, you’ve probably noticed a recycling symbol. Seeing this, many people assume the item should be put in a recycling bin. Yet many plastics are incapable of being recycled at most centers. In fact, only 9% is recycled each year. So why are so few plastics recycled? And what do these symbols actually mean? Shannon Odell investigates.
Additional Resources for you to Explore
Some Basics
If you want to learn more about the history of plastics, this Ted-Ed video is a good place to start. If you're curious about what exactly happens when you throw plastic away, head here.
The Scary Side of Plastics
Plastics threaten people, the planet, and animals due to their non-biodegradable nature and widespread usage. And, as we know from the video, they are much harder to recycle than you might think. First and foremost, plastic pollution has devastating effects on marine life and terrestrial ecosystems. Animals often mistake plastic for food, leading to ingestion and subsequent harm to their digestive systems, sometimes causing death. Plastic waste also contaminates water sources, threatening human populations with harmful chemicals and toxins. Additionally, the production and incineration of plastics release greenhouse gases, contributing to climate change and negatively impacting the planet's health. Microplastics, tiny particles resulting from plastic degradation, have been found in various food sources, potentially harming human health.
Some Big and Small Solutions
Many nations have implemented policies to reduce single-use plastics, encouraging the use of eco-friendly alternatives. Recycling infrastructure is being improved, with advancements in technology enabling the processing of more types of plastic. Some countries have even banned certain types of plastics to curb pollution. Corporations are also recognizing their responsibility and are investing in research to create biodegradable plastics and exploring innovative ways to recycle and break down existing plastic waste. Collaborations between governments, non-profit organizations, and businesses are fostering awareness and education about plastic pollution. Additionally, international agreements and initiatives encourage nations to combat the issue collectively. While challenges persist, these combined efforts signify a positive shift toward a more sustainable future, where plastic pollution is minimized and recycling processes are maximized.
If you want to learn more about the history of plastics, this Ted-Ed video is a good place to start. If you're curious about what exactly happens when you throw plastic away, head here.
The Scary Side of Plastics
Plastics threaten people, the planet, and animals due to their non-biodegradable nature and widespread usage. And, as we know from the video, they are much harder to recycle than you might think. First and foremost, plastic pollution has devastating effects on marine life and terrestrial ecosystems. Animals often mistake plastic for food, leading to ingestion and subsequent harm to their digestive systems, sometimes causing death. Plastic waste also contaminates water sources, threatening human populations with harmful chemicals and toxins. Additionally, the production and incineration of plastics release greenhouse gases, contributing to climate change and negatively impacting the planet's health. Microplastics, tiny particles resulting from plastic degradation, have been found in various food sources, potentially harming human health.
Some Big and Small Solutions
Many nations have implemented policies to reduce single-use plastics, encouraging the use of eco-friendly alternatives. Recycling infrastructure is being improved, with advancements in technology enabling the processing of more types of plastic. Some countries have even banned certain types of plastics to curb pollution. Corporations are also recognizing their responsibility and are investing in research to create biodegradable plastics and exploring innovative ways to recycle and break down existing plastic waste. Collaborations between governments, non-profit organizations, and businesses are fostering awareness and education about plastic pollution. Additionally, international agreements and initiatives encourage nations to combat the issue collectively. While challenges persist, these combined efforts signify a positive shift toward a more sustainable future, where plastic pollution is minimized and recycling processes are maximized.
About TED-Ed Animations
TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »
Meet The Creators
- Script Writer Shannon Odell
- Director Yuval Haker, Alon Sivan
- Narrator Addison Anderson
- Animator Alon Sivan, Yuval Haker, Dana Roth, Pavelas Laptevas, John McColgan
- Music Dana Roth
- Sound Designer Dana Roth
- Director of Production Gerta Xhelo
- Producer Sazia Afrin
- Editorial Director Alex Rosenthal
- Editorial Producer Shannon Odell
- Expert Consultant Rebecca Altman