Activity 4.2 Environmental Policy Frameworks

 The Purpose of Doing Environmental Policy Framework:

Environmental frameworks provide structured approaches for understanding, analyzing, and addressing environmental issues. They break down complex problems into manageable components, aiding individuals, organizations, and governments in making informed decisions and developing strategies for sustainability and environmental stewardship. By considering environmental, economic, and social aspects, these frameworks guide decision-making to ensure that actions meet present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own. Frameworks such as Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) promote accountability by encouraging consideration of the environmental impacts of actions. These frameworks are essential for promoting collaboration, innovation, and responsible management of natural resources for the benefit of current and future generations.

 Environmental Framework Policy Table:

The table collects information from three authoritative sources to demonstrate comparisons in environmental policy frames.

My Personal Environmental Policy Framework:

• Environmental Identity Frame: This frame focuses on understanding how my personal values and beliefs shape my environmental identity. It involves reflecting on how I identify with environmental issues and how this influences my actions and decisions. For example, I may see myself as an environmentalist and prioritize sustainable practices in my daily life because I believe it aligns with my values of environmental stewardship.
• Perception of Others Frame: This frame involves recognizing how I perceive others in environmental conflicts. I need to be mindful of avoiding stereotypes and negative characterizations, and instead, strive to understand differing perspectives. By doing so, I can promote constructive dialogue and work towards finding mutually beneficial solutions. For instance, I might approach a disagreement with a fellow student about recycling practices by seeking to understand their reasons and perspective rather than assuming they are simply not interested in sustainability.
• Conflict Resolution Approach Frame: This frame requires me to evaluate different conflict resolution processes based on their perceived value in achieving my desired outcomes. For example, if I am passionate about protecting a local park from development, I might consider engaging in negotiation with developers, participating in protests, or advocating for policy changes through direct political action. The choice of approach would depend on the specific context of the conflict and the likelihood of success for each method.
• Factual Interpretation Frame: In this frame, I acknowledge the role of facts and how they are interpreted in shaping my approach to conflicts. I need to be open to different interpretations of technical and social facts, considering how these interpretations influence my decisions and responses. For instance, if there is a debate about the environmental impact of a new industrial project, I would consider the scientific evidence from multiple sources before forming my opinion.
• Outcome Assessment Frame: This frame involves evaluating the potential gains and losses for myself and others in environmental decisions. It requires me to recognize the complexities of environmental issues, considering both short-term and long-term impacts on ecosystems and communities. For example, if a new recycling program is proposed in my community, I would consider not only the immediate costs and benefits but also the long-term effects on waste reduction and environmental conservation.

References:

Bryan, T. (2003). Context in environmental conflicts: Where you stand depends on where you sit. Environmental Practice, 5(3), 256-264. [Note: Rainey, 1977 has been collected from Bryan's source]

Davis, C. B., & Lewicki, R. J. (2003). Environmental conflict resolution: Framing and intractability--an introduction. Environmental Practice, 5(3), 200-206.

Environmental Framing Consortium. (2005). Framing Choices. Understanding Environmental Problems. Retrived from https://www.intractableconflict.org/environmentalframing/process_frames.shtml

Activity 4.1 – US Environmental History and Major Regulations

     Environmental policy and laws in the United States encompass a wide range of regulations and guidelines aimed at protecting the environment and natural resources. These policies can be established at the local, national, or international level and often focus on issues such as air and water quality, waste management, biodiversity conservation, and climate change mitigation. The concept of sustainability in environmental policy is often associated with the 1987 United Nations report "Our Common Future," known as the Brundtland Report. This report highlighted the interconnectedness of human well-being with ecological systems, social networks, and economic viability.

A graphical form timeline illustrating the Major US Federal Environmental Laws. Information retrieved from Sustainability: A comprehensive foundation. OpenStax CNX. 

    In the formative period of American conservation, industries such as agriculture, timber, and mining, along with major transportation sectors like railroads and steamboats, had little incentive to manage their emissions or use natural resources responsibly (Theis & Tomkin, 2018). Regulations were scarce, scientific understanding of environmental impacts was limited, and the commons were viewed as essentially infinite (Theis & Tomkin, 2018). The prevailing mindset was that resource exploitation and waste generation were necessary for expansion, job creation, and social well-being. Despite these challenges, industries are highly responsive to economic conditions. If sustainability is to be achieved, economic viability is crucial, and industrial engagement is essential due to its role in providing employment and controlling capital for investment.

    The Major US Federal Environmental Laws reflect a cultural and philosophical shift in American society toward valuing and protecting the natural environment. Early conservation efforts were often driven by a desire to preserve the country's natural beauty and wilderness areas for future generations, as exemplified by the establishment of national parks like Yosemite and Yellowstone in the late 19th century.

    In recent years, there has been growing recognition of the need to address climate change through environmental policy. The US has implemented various measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, including the Clean Power Plan and the Paris Agreement. However, environmental policy in the US remains a topic of debate, with differing opinions on the balance between environmental protection and economic development.

   The rise of environmental risk management marked a shift in policy focus toward assessing and mitigating environmental risks. This era saw the development of regulatory frameworks aimed at protecting public health and the environment from harmful pollutants and hazardous waste.

   The integration of social and economic factors into environmental policy represents the evolution towards the sustainability paradigm. This approach recognizes the need for holistic, integrated approaches to environmental management that consider not just ecological factors but also social equity and economic viability.

    These distinct periods in environmental policy reflect a continuous evolution towards more comprehensive and sustainable approaches to environmental management. While each era was shaped by the norms and needs of its time, they collectively contribute to the modern concept of sustainability, emphasizing the importance of balancing environmental, social, and economic considerations in policy-making.

References:

Theis, T., & Tomkin, J. (Eds). (2018). Sustainability: A comprehensive foundation. OpenStax CNX.  Retrieved from THEISandTOMKIN_Sustainability-a-Comprehensive-Foundation-45.1.pdf 

Activity 3.3.3.1 Current Events in Plastic Pollution

1. Exploratory

In the article "The Beginning of the End for Plastic Pollution?" several key facts and knowledge points are highlighted to support the exploration of the global efforts to combat plastic pollution. One key fact is the commitment of the United Nations to deliver a legally binding agreement on plastic pollution by the end of 2024. This commitment signifies a monumental step in the global fight against plastic pollution, indicating a shift towards more sustainable plastic production and disposal practices. Additionally, the article mentions that plastic production is expected to triple by 2060 while recycling rates remain below 10 percent (UNDP). This disparity underscores the urgent need for action to address plastic pollution, as relying solely on downstream measures such as recycling is insufficient to tackle the growing problem.

Besides, the article also highlights the role of consensus in global diplomacy and its impact on negotiations regarding plastic pollution. Consensus is challenging to achieve, especially on complex issues like plastic pollution, where nations have varying interests and priorities. This highlights the need for a balanced approach that considers inclusivity while ensuring prompt and effective action.

2. Diagnostics

In the context of the article, the motives or causes for global efforts to combat plastic pollution can be diagnosed as stemming from several key factors:

• Environmental Degradation: The primary driver behind the push to address plastic pollution is the severe environmental degradation caused by plastic waste. Plastics persist in the environment for extended periods, harming ecosystems, wildlife, and marine life. This environmental impact is a significant concern driving action against plastic pollution.
• Public Health Concerns: Another critical factor is the concern for public health. Plastic pollution can lead to contamination of food and water sources and the release of harmful chemicals from plastics. Addressing plastic pollution is crucial for protecting public health and safety.
• Resource Depletion: The production of plastics relies heavily on fossil fuels, a finite resource. As plastic production continues to rise, there is growing concern about the depletion of these resources. This concern drives the need to find sustainable alternatives to plastic and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
• Climate Change Mitigation: Plastics are derived from fossil fuels, and their production and disposal contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Addressing plastic pollution is seen as a way to mitigate climate change by reducing reliance on fossil fuels and decreasing associated emissions.
• Economic Impacts: There are significant economic costs associated with plastic pollution, including cleanup efforts and damage to industries such as tourism and fisheries. Addressing plastic pollution is seen as a way to reduce these economic costs and create new economic opportunities in sustainable alternatives to plastic.

3. Cause and Effect

 In the context of the article, several causal relationships between ideas, actions, or events related to plastic pollution can be identified. The projected increase in plastic production, coupled with low recycling rates below 10 percent, will likely lead to a significant volume of plastic waste entering the environment (UNDP). The lack of consensus among nations in negotiations may slow down progress and result in compromises that reduce the effectiveness of proposed solutions. Additionally, the transition away from fossil fuels could have implications for the plastics industry, potentially altering production and use patterns. The private sector, preeminent plastics producers, plays a crucial role, and their failure to address the environmental costs of their products could hinder efforts to combat plastic pollution. Furthermore, as more governments introduce regulations to tackle plastic pollution, there may be a reduction in single-use plastics and a shift towards more sustainable practices. These interrelated causal relationships underscore the complexity of the issue and the need for coordinated global action to address plastic pollution effectively.

 

4. Priority

 The most important issue identified in the article is the urgent need for global action to address plastic pollution comprehensively. This includes the development of a legally binding agreement by the United Nations to transform the way plastics are produced and disposed of. The article emphasizes that plastic production is expected to triple by 2060 while recycling rates remain low at below 10 percent (UNDP). Additionally, the impact of plastic pollution on the environment, public health, and resource depletion underscores the critical need for immediate and effective measures to reduce plastic waste. The article also highlights the role of consensus in global diplomacy and the challenges of achieving agreement among nations with varying interests. Addressing plastic pollution is seen as a crucial step in mitigating climate change, protecting public health, and preserving natural resources for future generations.

 

5. Application

 In considering the application of the article's content, the global efforts to combat plastic pollution have significant implications for individuals, communities, and societies worldwide. Individuals can contribute to the reduction of plastic waste by adopting sustainable practices, such as reducing the use of single-use plastics and recycling. Communities can advocate for and implement policies that promote plastic waste reduction and recycling programs. From a cultural perspective, the issue of plastic pollution reflects broader cultural values and practices related to consumption, waste management, and environmental stewardship. As we have studied, culture shapes our attitudes and behaviors towards the environment, and addressing plastic pollution requires a cultural shift towards more sustainable practices and a greater appreciation for the impact of our actions on the planet.

 

6. Critical

 The article challenges my thinking by highlighting the complexity and urgency of the issue of plastic pollution. While I was aware of the environmental impact of plastic waste, the article's emphasis on the projected increase in plastic production and the low recycling rates underscored the need for immediate action. It has made me realize the interconnectedness of various factors, such as fossil fuel dependence, economic considerations, and global diplomacy, in addressing plastic pollution. Additionally, the article's discussion on the role of the private sector and the need for government regulations has prompted me to reconsider the importance of individual and collective responsibility in reducing plastic waste. For the most part, the article has deepened my understanding of the challenges posed by plastic pollution and the critical need for collaborative efforts to address this pressing environmental issue.

 References:

Chen, S., Neumann, M., & Okumah, M. (2024, February 6). The beginning of the end for plastics pollution? UNDP Retrieved from https://www.undp.org/blog/beginning-end-plastics-pollution#:~:text=February%206%2C%202024,by%20the%20end%20of%202024.

OpenAI. (2024). ChatGPT (3.5) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com

[OpenAI was used for clarity, conciseness and to avoid any writing errors]

Activity 3.3.3 – My Plastic Use

Definition:

Microplastics, as defined by Thompson (2015), are small particles or fragments of plastic debris ranging in size from microns to several millimeters in diameter. These particles are so tiny that they often go unnoticed, but their presence is widespread and their impact on our environment and health is profound. In this essay, I will explore the definition of microplastics, where they are found, how they get there, and why they are problematic to humans and the environment.

In our home, we have recently reduced our use of plastic. Since installing a water softener, we no longer need to rely on drinking water from plastic bottles. We still have a few bottles left from our last supply, which we use when we have guests. Apart from water bottles, we also have plastic milk gallons, food and drink containers, and packaging from online purchases.

Sources:

Microplastics enter our waterways through various sources, including the degradation of larger plastic debris such as plastic bags and bottles, the washing of synthetic clothing and textiles, and the runoff from land application of sewage sludge contaminated with microplastics (Haab S. & Haab K.). These tiny particles have been reported in every major open ocean and in many freshwater lakes and rivers, making them a global conservation issue (Wright et al., 2013).

Impact on Human and the Environment:

One of the major concerns surrounding microplastics is their persistence in the environment. Unlike natural materials, microplastics do not biodegrade and will therefore persist in the environments in which they are introduced. This persistence leads to wide-reaching immediate and long-term impacts on the health of species and ecosystems, threatening numerous services and resources on which humans and other species rely (Haab S. & Haab K.). Studies from research labs suggested that microplastics can trigger inflammation and oxidative stress in heart cells, impair heart function, alter heart rate, and cause scarring of the heart in animals such as mice. The study found that patients with microplastics in their removed plaques were 4.5 times more likely to have suffered a stroke, non-fatal heart attack, or death from any cause within 34 months compared to those without detectable microplastics in their plaques. (Watson, 2024)

Regional Impact:

Microplastics pose a direct threat to biodiversity by impacting ecosystems and the organisms that inhabit them. These particles can be ingested by a variety of aquatic organisms, leading to adverse biological effects that impact the fitness and functionality of affected species (Herzke et al., 2016). Additionally, microplastics have the potential to adsorb toxic organic contaminants from water and sediments, transporting them to aquatic organisms that ingest or contact the microplastics. This can lead to bioaccumulation and biomagnification of toxins throughout ecosystem trophic levels, including trophic transfer to humans (Seltenrich, 2015).

Microplastic pollution has been documented in major freshwater bodies such as the St. Lawrence River, Lake Champlain, and the New York sections of Lake Ontario and Lake Erie (Haab S & Haab K.). This pollution threatens the biodiversity and functionality of these waterbodies, endangering the instrumental and intrinsic value associated with healthy waterways for residents and tourists alike.

Mitigation Strategies:

To combat the impacts of microplastic pollution, comprehensive strategies are imperative. These may include the implementation of public policies, international agreements, consumer education, and enhanced awareness. While some national legislation has been enacted to prohibit the inclusion of plastic microbeads in certain products, more action is needed to effectively remediate the negative impacts of microplastic contamination in regional and global water bodies (Haab S. & Haab K.).

In conclusion, Microplastics are a pervasive and persistent threat to our environment and health. Understanding the sources and impacts of microplastics is crucial for developing effective strategies to mitigate their effects and protect our ecosystems. By taking action to reduce plastic waste and promote responsible consumption, we can help minimize the impact of microplastics on our planet.

References:

Haab, S., & Haab, K. (n.d.). The environmental impacts of microplastics: An investigation of microplastic pollution in North Country waterbodies. Adventure Scientists. https://www.adventurescientists.org/uploads/7/3/9/8/7398741/haabhaab2016_environmental_impacts_of_microplastics.pdf

Herzke et al. (2016) Collected from The environmental impacts of microplastics: An investigation of microplastic pollution in North Country waterbodies. Adventure Scientists. https://www.adventurescientists.org/uploads/7/3/9/8/7398741/haabhaab2016_environmental_impacts_of_microplastics.pdf

Seltenrich (2015) Collected from The environmental impacts of microplastics: An investigation of microplastic pollution in North Country waterbodies. Adventure Scientists. https://www.adventurescientists.org/uploads/7/3/9/8/7398741/haabhaab2016_environmental_impacts_of_microplastics.pdf

Thompson (2015) Collected from The environmental impacts of microplastics: An investigation of microplastic pollution in North Country waterbodies. Adventure Scientists. https://www.adventurescientists.org/uploads/7/3/9/8/7398741/haabhaab2016_environmental_impacts_of_microplastics.pdf

Watson, C. (2024, March 7). Plastic is found inside more than 50% of plaques from clogged arteries. Science Alert.

Wright et al. (2013) Collected from The environmental impacts of microplastics: An investigation of microplastic pollution in North Country waterbodies. Adventure Scientists. https://www.adventurescientists.org/uploads/7/3/9/8/7398741/haabhaab2016_environmental_impacts_of_microplastics.pdf