Packaging makes up a large part of the solid waste stream. Canada has taken steps to reduce packaging with its National Packaging Protocol. But are some types of packaging better than others? Paper readily decomposes, but if it is made from trees it can contribute to deforestation and increased atmospheric greenhouse gases. Plastics are lighter weight and may be more durable (and reusable) but may be made from petroleum. Glass is more environmentally benign to make and use, but it is heavier, which translates into higher fuel costs for transportation. The Canadian Plastics Industry Association (CPIA) makes the case for plastics as a sustainable packaging option.
Go to www.plastics.ca.
Evaluate the website and work with the information to answer the following questions:
Is this a reliable information source? Does the association have a clear and transparent agenda?
Who runs the website? Do the association’s credentials make the information reliable or unreliable? Explain.
Do you detect a bias in the information presented? Explain.
Click on the “Intelligent Plastics” link and read the information there. Check out at least two of the links on this page.
What are the main claims made by CPIA regarding intelligent plastics? What evidence does the association offer to back up these claims?
Does this website present any information regarding the potential drawbacks of plastics? Should it? Explain.
Go back to the home page and click on the “Sustainability” link. Once there, select “Plastic Packaging.” What reasons are presented in support of plastic as a good packaging material? What evidence does CPIA offer to back up these claims?
This website offers educational links and handouts. Open the “Education Tools” link on the home page and look over some of the material. Do you recommend these resources for use in a school classroom? Why or why not?