The Conversation Weekly How the world got hooked on plastic
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Aug 7, 2025 Mark Miodownik, a materials and society professor at University College London, unpacks the world's addiction to plastic. He delves into the history of plastics and their evolution from natural to synthetic materials, influencing everything from visual arts to consumer behavior. The discussion highlights the challenges of recycling and the urgent need for corporate accountability in tackling plastic pollution. Miodownik also advocates for systemic changes to combat consumerism's hold on the plastic industry, urging a shift towards a sustainable economy.
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History and Impact of Plastic
- Plastic originated from natural materials like rubber and evolved with electricity's rise for insulation and flexibility.
- Innovations like celluloid enabled portable photography and cinema, revolutionizing storytelling and technology use.
Plastic Cheapness Drives Waste
- Plummeting plastic prices in the 1940s popularized single-use packaging as a symbol of freedom.
- This shift encouraged wasteful habits with plastics due to their low cost and convenience.
Early Awareness of Plastic Waste
- Plastic manufacturers and governments knew plastics didn't degrade quickly by the 1970s.
- Society largely accepted landfill disposal without recognizing the long-term environmental impact.