KQED's Forum Former EPA Official Judith Enck on How to Save Our Planet from Plastic
Jan 5, 2026
Judith Enck, former EPA regional administrator and president of Beyond Plastics, dives deep into the pervasive issue of plastic pollution. She reveals how plastic has infiltrated every aspect of our lives and discusses the challenges in regulating it. Enck shares insights on harmful chemicals, the shortcomings of recycling, and links between plastics and climate change. She emphasizes the importance of reducing plastic use on both individual and systemic levels, while also offering practical solutions for a plastic-free life.
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Refillable Glass Bottles In Mexico
- Judith Enck recalls Mexico's past use of refillable glass soda bottles and contrasts it with today's plastic littered roadsides.
- She argues refillable glass systems are doable and preferable to single-use plastic packaging.
Packaging Is Where Change Matters Most
- Plastic packaging accounts for about 40% of plastic use and has many practical non-plastic alternatives like paper, metal, and glass.
- Recycling these alternatives actually works better than relying on plastic recycling rates.
Avoid Heating Food In Plastic
- Never put plastic in the microwave and avoid heating food in plastic to reduce chemical leaching.
- Judith Enck warns hot liquids and microwaving increase the risk of chemicals entering food.
