Group Report

“Ethical problems related to plastic pollution and ensuring

environmental justice to tackle plastic pollution in the ocean”
ENV107 Section-12
Submitted To
Sheikh Samanin Tasnim (SHT)
Lecturer
Department of Environmental Science and Management
North South University (NSU)

Submitted By
Name ID
Sayed Imtiaz Mahmud 1931505030
Yeana Taher 2031793647
Zareen Subah Ushoshee 2012203647
Tasfia Maun 2031678030
Mehzuba Islam Nahin 2031539630
Saiyara Wadifa Haque 2231645630
 Abstract
Plastic pollution has become a serious environmental issue with adverse effects on both
human health and marine ecosystems. This study examines the moral issues raised by plastic
pollution, emphasizing the importance of solving this problem with environmental justice.
This research underlines the necessity of exercising ethical responsibility to reduce plastic
pollution in the ocean by looking at the disproportionate effects on disadvantaged populations
and taking into account the principles of distributive justice, intergenerational fairness, and
ecological integrity.

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 Introduction
Plastic pollution threatens marine ecosystems, animals, and human health, requiring
comprehensive remedies and environmental justice. With eight million metric tons of plastic
entering the sea annually, it affects low-income and underprivileged communities.
Environmental justice concerns involve the fair sharing of environmental benefits and
expenses across socioeconomic groups. The health dangers and lack of access to clean water
caused by plastic pollution are particularly concerning for low-income and marginalized
individuals. To address this issue, a comprehensive strategy must include reducing plastic
use, increasing recycling and waste management, and encouraging environmentally friendly
production processes.

The economic and social effects of plastic pollution must also be considered, and those most
impacted must be included in policymaking. Cooperation and action from individuals,
groups, and governments worldwide are essential to addressing plastic pollution and ensuring
environmental justice.

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 1.Plastic Pollution and Environmental Injustice

1.1 Disproportionate Impacts:

Plastic pollution has a disproportionate impact on underprivileged people, who are frequently
located in coastal areas or developing countries. These communities have the infrastructure
and resources necessary for handling and reducing the effects of plastic trash. They must bear
the costs of plastic pollution, which include ruined ecosystems, ruined livelihoods, and
negative health consequences.

1.2 Intergenerational Equity:

Plastic pollution poses ethical dilemmas for intergenerational equity as irresponsible use and
disposal cause lasting environmental damage, threatening present and future generations.
Addressing these issues is crucial for preserving the environment's integrity. Let's explore
each topic and its links.

Plastic pollution accumulates in seas, rivers, and landfills. Plastics remain for millennia since
they don't decompose. Pollution harms ecosystems, animals, and humans. Plastic garbage
ingestion or entanglement can kill marine creatures. Microplastics, tiny plastic particles, have
also been found in seafood and drinking water, posing health dangers.

Environmental injustice occurs when vulnerable

populations, often based on race, poverty, or social
status, bear the brunt of environmental threats and
pollution. Industrial facilities, landfills, and other
environmental deterioration may pollute these towns.
They may also lack clean air, water, and green places,
affecting their health and quality of life.

Intergenerational Equity: Present generations should

be environmental stewards, using resources wisely and

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considering future generations' needs and rights. It stresses protecting natural resources and
leaving a livable earth for future generations.

Plastic pollution disproportionately harms underprivileged groups, worsening environmental

inequality. Industries and trash disposal sites are often near underprivileged areas, exposing
them to plastic pollution and related health dangers. This perpetuates inequality by passing on
the detrimental impacts of plastic waste to future generations.

A multigenerational approach is needed to combat plastic waste and environmental injustice.

Recycling, sustainable alternatives, and effective waste management are ways to reduce
plastic waste. It also entails lobbying for fair environmental policy, supporting marginalized
groups, and ensuring everyone has clean surroundings and resources.

Recognizing the interconnection of these challenges and working together can lead to a more
sustainable and fair future for present and future generations.

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2.Ethical Principles for Addressing Plastic Pollution

2.1 Distributive Justice:

A fair distribution of the burdens and benefits of environmental actions is required for
distributive justice. It is essential to make sure that the responsibility of reducing plastic
waste is distributed fairly among individuals, industries, and the government in order to
lessen plastic pollution. This includes implementing policies that hold plastic producers
accountable, promoting recycling initiatives, and supporting sustainable and eco-friendly
alternatives.

2.2 Ecological Integrity:

The principle of ecological integrity highlights the interconnectivity of ecosystems and the
necessity to preserve their balance and health. Plastic pollution disrupts marine ecosystems,
endangering biodiversity and compromising ecological integrity. By taking action against
plastic pollution, we uphold our ethical responsibility to maintain the intrinsic value of the
environment and its inhabitants.

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 3.Pollution by Plastic and Ecological Justice

3.1 Education and Being Aware:

Humans are unlikely to act unethically if they have strong moral values, which arise from
knowledge. Creating awareness about the negative effects of plastic pollution on the
ecosystem and society is essential for achieving ecological justice. Engaging both rich and
underprivileged people, educational initiatives should promote accountability and sustainable
purchasing behaviors. Every person is obligated to contribute to the preservation of the world
since it is theirs to protect.

3.2 Policy Measures:

Governments are essential in reducing plastic pollution as well as maintaining ecological
justice. Bans or limitations on disposable plastics should be implemented, as should widening
access to facilities for recycling and composting, taking initiatives that increase manufacturer
accountability, and encouraging the use of recyclable packaging alternatives. These
regulations must take into consideration the particular needs and difficulties experienced by
underprivileged populations. Furthermore, including impacted communities in the process of
decision-making is crucial to achieving environmental justice. By enabling these populations,
we can guarantee an open and equitable method for reducing plastic pollution by using their
expertise and viewpoints to shape policies and activities.

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3.3 Global Collaboration:
Because plastic pollution knows no borders and affects everyone on the planet, international
collaboration is essential to finding solutions to this worldwide problem. Coordination across
nations can make it easier to share resources, science, technology, and best practices in order
to create efficient plans for decreasing plastic waste. Global treaties and correspondence can
aid in creating an atmosphere for community engagement and promoting an understanding of
ecological consciousness on a global basis.

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 4. Corporate Responsibility and Accountability

4.1 Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR):

Governments should implement regulations that make plastic manufacturers responsible for
the use of their goods. By implementing EPR programs, companies can be assured that their
plastic goods are properly disposed of and recycled. This strategy encourages the creation of
more environmentally friendly packaging and supports a circular economy, in which
resources are recycled or reused rather than going to waste.

4.2 Transparent Supply Chains:

To address the moral issues raised by
plastic pollution, supply chain
transparency is essential. Companies
should be transparent about their use
of plastic, methods for managing
garbage, and efforts to reduce their
environmental impact. The desire for
sustainable and plastic-free products is
supported by this openness, which
enables customers to make
knowledgeable decisions.

4.3 Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR):

Companies have an obligation to reduce their environmental impact and give back to the
communities where they do business. Businesses may help clean-up efforts, enhance waste
management infrastructure in impacted regions, and invest in the development of novel
solutions through CSR programs. Corporate collaborations with NGOs and government
organizations can strengthen these initiatives and promote a teamwork mentality while
addressing the problem of plastic pollution.

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 5.Research and Innovation
5.1 Sustainable Alternatives to Plastic:
Focusing on research and innovation is vital to finding sustainable alternatives to
conventional plastics. Scientists and engineers can develop biodegradable materials, such as
bioplastics, that have reduced environmental impacts and can be safely submerged in natural
systems. Increased adoption of these alternatives in various industries will significantly
contribute to reducing plastic pollution.

5.2 Ocean Cleanup Technologies:

Advanced technologies for removing plastic from the ocean are continuously being
developed. These machines,, like ocean cleanup vessels, can help remove large-scale plastic
waste and prevent further harm to marine ecosystems. Investing to research and development
in this field can lead to more effective methods of cleaning up plastic pollution.

5.3 Behavioral and Societal Shifts:

In order to address the ethical aspects of plastic pollution, it is essential to understand human
behavior and social attitudes toward plastic use. Research may assist develop strategies to
change consumer behavior toward more sustainable options and offer insights into the driving
forces behind plastic usage. This might include public awareness efforts, teaching projects
aimed at communities and schools, and campaigns encouraging reusable goods.

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 Conclusion
In conclusion, the ethical issues associated with plastic pollution necessitate immediate action
and commitment to environmental justice to achieve effective oceanic solutions. The dire
consequences for marine life and ecosystems highlight the critical importance of establishing
an ethical framework.

Prioritizing sustainable practices and reducing reliance on single-use plastics is critical for
ethically combating plastic pollution. Communities, businesses, and governments must work
together to encourage responsible consumption, develop eco-friendly alternatives, and
establish effective waste management systems.

Furthermore, attaining environmental justice is critical in order to address the

disproportionate impact on marginalized communities. A fair approach requires empowering
these communities through education, participation, and resource accessibility.

We can strive for a future with less plastic pollution, protect marine ecosystems, and uphold
environmental justice by raising awareness, advocating policy changes, and fostering
collaboration. We pave the way for a sustainable and thriving planet for future generations
through ethical actions and shared responsibility.

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 Reference
(https://www.greenpeace.org/international/story/21792/plastic-waste-environmental-justice/?
fbclid=IwAR3VNtZCN6iG69mMi2PoD4qbtLyjCZ8cJ4fRfFz34j2Czc7nJ4O6kfMlhRc, 23 April
2019)
(https://scholar.dominican.edu/senior-theses/113/, 2019)
(https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?
id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0111913&fbclid=IwAR3HE4iUjq0JbubIyghBTF99C4Io60F0FIE
PhsSkqxk06JLQjhi9s1xENOg, December 10, 2014)

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 Contribution
Name ID Part
Sayed Imtiaz Mahmud 1931505030 Introduction
&
4. Corporate
Responsibility and
Accountability
Yeana Taher 2031793647 1.Plastic Pollution and
Environmental
Injustice
Zareen Subah Ushoshee 2012203647 2. Ethical Principles
for Addressing Plastic
Pollution
Tasfia Maun 2031678030 3.Pollution by Plastic
and Ecological Justice
Mehzuba Islam Nahin 2031539630 5.Research and
Innovation
Saiyara Wadifa Haque 2231645630 Conclusion

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