Plastic Podcast
Plastic Podcast is your go-to source for uncovering the complex world of plastics and their impact on our planet.
From tracing the negotiations of the UN Plastics Treaty to exploring the science of microplastics, alternative materials, and human health, we dive deep into the issues that matter most. Discover how plastics intersect with climate change, biodiversity, and social justice, and learn what science says about solutions for a sustainable future.
Whether you're a policy enthusiast, a science advocate, or simply curious about the pervasive role of plastics in our lives, Plastic Podcast brings expert voices and compelling narratives to help you understand and act on this global challenge.
In the debut episode of Plastic Podcast, host Clark Marchese takes listeners on a journey through the fascinating history of plastic. From its humble beginnings as a replacement for ivory billiard balls to its modern-day ubiquity, plastic has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past century. With special guest Dr. Seth Rasmussen, a polymers and plastics chemist with a passion for science history, the episode delves into the origins of plastic and its evolution into the versatile material we know today.
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In this episode of Plastic Podcast, host Clark Marchese talks to Abby Barrows, a marine researcher and microplastics expert who spearheaded a global project to quantify microplastic concentrations in water systems all over the world. The conversation flows through Abby’s scientific interests, definitions of microplastics and what we know about their harms, how the database project was conducted and what we learn from it, and the important contributions of citizen science.
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This episode of the Plastic Podcast delves into the concept of zero waste cities, exploring how urban areas can reduce their waste footprint. Jack McQuibban from Zero Waste Europe unfolds the intricacies of achieving zero waste status, examining the balance between individual actions and systemic changes necessary for this ambitious goal. By highlighting successful strategies and the potential savings in waste management, the episode paints a hopeful yet realistic picture of the future of waste reduction
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This episode of the Plastic Podcast, with Dr. Winnie Courtene-Jones, tackles the topic of biodegradable plastics. The conversation includes a nuanced examination of the different plastic types, their environmental implications, and the pervasive issue of greenwashing.. They also explore the social and economic effects of alternative plastics and how they show up in the upcoming United Nations Treaty on Plastic Pollution. This episode is essential for anyone looking to understand the complex role of biodegradable plastics in our environmental future.
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In this episode of Plastic Podcast, we examine plastic's role in art, from a new medium to a symbol of activism. Featuring Dr. Johannis Tsoumas, we explore its early use in art, like the 1930s acrylic paints revolution, influencing movements such as abstract expressionism and pop art. We also discuss contemporary artists like Pamela Longobardi and Pascale Marthine Tayou, who use plastic to protest environmental harm, highlighting its dual role as a consumerist symbol and a catalyst for change.
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In this episode, host Clark Marchese talks with Dr. Christine Figgener, a sea turtle biologist known for her 2015 viral video where she removed a straw from a turtle's nose, sparking a significant anti-straw movement. The video highlighted the severe impact of plastic on marine life, making turtles a symbol of this global issue. Nearly a decade later, they reflect on the movement's progress and discuss the wider consequences of plastic waste, the blend of science and activism, and the critical need for environmental reform worldwide.
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In this episode, Dr. Yvonne Shashoua, a researcher at the National Museum of Denmark, discusses the complex world of plastic conservation. It covers the historical, cultural, and environmental impacts of plastics, from preserving WWII propaganda balloons and spacesuits to addressing plastic degradation in oceans. Dr. Shashoua, with her rich background in polymer chemistry and museum conservation, shares insights on the challenges and innovations in preserving plastics for future generations. This episode illuminates how museum science enhances our understanding of plastics' role in our world.
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In this episode of the Plastic Podcast, Dr. Sedat Gündoğdu discusses the alarming presence of microplastics in our diet, highlighting how common foods like seafood, salt, and spirulina are contaminated. He explains the entry paths of these tiny pollutants into our food chain, their health risks, and the broader environmental challenges they pose. The episode underscores the critical need for further research, immediate policy changes, and personal actions to address the pervasive issue of microplastics in our food.
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This episode explores significant gaps in our understanding of plastics and human health with Dr. Sarah Dunlop, Dr. Bhedita Seewoo, and Dr. Louise Goodes from the Minderoo Foundation. They discuss their research on the Plastics Human Health Map, which compiles all known studies on the health impacts of plastics. The conversation highlights the urgent need for further research and global policy changes to address microplastics and chemical exposures, alongside environmental justice issues related to plastic pollution.
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This episode takes us to Thailand and Malaysia to explore the $37 billion global plastic waste economy. Joined by sustainability consultant Dr. Hui Ling from Malaysia and environmental policy researcher Dr. Danny Marks from Dublin City University, we delve into the international plastic waste trade, its socio-economic impacts, and the pollution burdens on recipient countries. Discover the challenges and solutions discussed for a sustainable future in plastic waste management. Tune in for expert insights!
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In this episode, host Clark Marchese delves into the world of poetry and plastic with guest Allison Cobb, author of "Plastic: An Autobiography." Exploring the intersections between environmental activism and creative expression, the discussion uncovers how poetic perspectives can deepen our understanding of plastic’s pervasive presence and its impact on the environment. Cobb shares her unique approach to environmental issues through poetic narratives, revealing connections between plastic pollution, historical events, and personal experiences.
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This episode delves into the relationship between plastics and climate change with Dr. Livia Cabernard, a sustainability expert from the Technical University of Munich. It explores the lifecycle of plastics, especially those powered by coal, significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Through a detailed discussion, Dr. Cabernard unveils how shifts in global production to coal-based economies exacerbate climate impacts and discusses potential policy measures that could mitigate these effects.
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In this episode of Plastic Podcast, host Clark Marchese delves into the intricate world of chemical recycling with Dr. Julia Vogel, a chemical engineer from the German Federal Environmental Agency. They explore the nuances of chemical recycling, its comparison to mechanical recycling, the different methods of chemical recycling and their different outputs, and its potential role in the future of plastics management. This informative discussion breaks down complex recycling methods like pyrolysis, gasification, and solvolysis in a way that's accessible to all listeners.
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This week we hand the mic to our sister podcast "Something in the Water," hosted by Elena Berg, to discuss the environmental and social justice impacts of plastic pollution in the bottled water industry. Guests include anti-plastic activist Malia Elder and researcher Dr. Sherri Mason, who shares her findings on plastic in drinking water. Malia discusses the broader social issues linked to plastic production and waste. This episode highlights the significant role of the bottled water sector in the larger plastic crisis and calls for extensive systemic reforms.
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Joined by experts Dr. Xuejun Liu and Dr. Kai Wang from China Agriculture University, the discussion explores the presence and effects of microplastics and nanoplastics in agricultural soils. We delve into the sources of plastic pollution, the current state of research, and the unanswered questions that drive future investigations. Dr. Liu and Dr. Wang share insights from their studies on how plastics affect soil health, agricultural yields, and even the tiny earthworms and bacteria that play crucial roles in nutrient cycling.
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Guest expert Rachel Karasik provides a comprehensive life cycle assessment of plastic, exploring its impacts from production to disposal. The episode discusses not only the environmental and health damages associated with each stage of plastic's journey but also the often overlooked economic benefits that contribute to its pervasive use. Through detailed analysis, they uncover how plastic's lifecycle impacts various populations differently, emphasizing the need for policies that address these inequalities.
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This week we dive deep into the interplay between environmental psychology and plastic use, focusing on the PISCES project with Dr. Anastasia Voronkova. We unravel how psychology can help modify behaviors around plastic consumption, delve into Indonesia’s unique challenges with waste banks and religious practices, and discover what the West can learn from the majority world about managing plastic waste. Dr. Voronkova sheds light on how environmental psychology can provide insights into our relationship with plastic.
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This week we hand the mic to our sister podcast “South Pole” to explore the unexpected presence of plastic in Antarctica. Guest Dr. Clara Manno, a marine ecologist at the British Antarctic Survey, discusses the extensive pollution reaching even the most remote ecosystems. We learn about the various forms of plastic infiltrating the Antarctic environment, their pathways, and the profound impacts on local wildlife and ecological functions. This episode highlights the urgent need for global cooperation to tackle plastic pollution and preserve Antarctica's pristine nature.
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Dive into plastic pollution's impact on deep sea coral reefs with host Clark Marchese and expert Dr. Lucy Woodall. Discover the vital roles of coral reefs, from supporting marine life to protecting coastal communities, and learn about the threats posed by plastics, from disease transmission to structural damage. Dr. Woodall shares insights from her research and recent expeditions, emphasizing the urgent need for global action to protect these critical ecosystems. Tune in to understand the intricate connections between plastic pollution, climate change, and marine conservation, and explore solutions for a sustainable future.
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This interview with Dr. Vassilis Daioglou, a Senior Researcher at the PBL Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency explores the potential pathways for reducing plastic's impact on climate change using integrated assessment models. Dr. Daioglou discusses three key strategies: pricing emissions from burning plastics, enhancing recycling efforts, and using bio-based materials. Learn how these models project a net negative carbon emission from plastics and what it means for our future. Dive into the complexities of the circular bioeconomy and discover how innovative approaches could turn plastics from a problem into a climate solution.
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This episode delves into Indigenous-led environmental management and the interaction of plastics with Indigenous communities. It explores how Indigenous approaches to plastic pollution offer unique and effective solutions. The episode features an insightful conversation with Riley Cotter, a Master's student at Memorial University, whose research bridges natural science and social justice. Riley discusses their work on microplastics in surface waters and the importance of Indigenous participation in environmental governance.
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This episode explores how digital technologies are driving Africa’s circular plastic economy. Joined by Dr. Seun Kolade and Wunmi Ogunde, they discuss how mobile apps and blockchain connect households with recyclers, empowering communities, and reimagining the plastic value chain. They also highlight the key role women play in these systems and the challenges faced by waste pickers across the continent. This episode sheds light on the innovative approaches Africa is taking to address plastic waste and how digital solutions are fostering both environmental and economic progress.
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In this science-focused episode we deep dive into the world of ocean garbage patches and microplastic hotspots. Joined by Dr. Annika Jahnke and PhD candidate Robbie Rynek, the episode explores a groundbreaking research expedition across the Pacific Ocean, from Vancouver to Singapore. The team discusses the surprising findings, including high concentrations of microplastics in unexpected areas, and the challenges of mapping plastic pollution in the vast oceans. Learn about the critical intersections of plastic and marine life, the implications for environmental policy, and the ongoing efforts to combat this growing issue.
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Exploring the intersection of tourism and plastic pollution, this episode dives into how vacations contribute to environmental challenges. We speak with Dr. Farzana Quoquab, an expert in green marketing and sustainable development, about the link between tourism and increased plastic waste. They discuss the structural issues within the tourism industry, the role of governments, businesses, and individuals in reducing plastic pollution, and highlight success stories from countries like Malaysia and the Maldives. Tune in to learn how to be a more responsible tourist and what actions can be taken to protect our planet’s most beautiful destinations.
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Discover the fascinating world of neuston—tiny organisms living on the ocean's surface—and how they interact with plastic pollution in the South Indian Ocean subtropical gyre. In this episode of the Plastic Podcast, host Clark Marchese is joined by marine ecologist Dr. Mark Gibbons from the University of the Western Cape. Together, they delve into the unique dynamics of neuston communities, their role in the marine ecosystem, and the implications of plastic pollution on these delicate life forms. Learn why understanding these interactions is vital for future ocean cleanup efforts and the preservation of marine biodiversity.
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This episode is a case study of Cancer Alley. We investigate the environmental and health impacts of a region in Louisiana notorious for its high concentration of petrochemical plants. Special guests Dr. Kimberly Terrell and Gianna St. Julien from Tulane Environmental Law Clinic share insights from their groundbreaking studies that link air pollution to increased cancer risks and explore the concept of environmental racism. The episode also highlights grassroots activism efforts aimed at addressing these injustices and the ongoing fight for meaningful policy change in the region.
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In this episode we delve into the emergence and spread of anti-plastic movements, tracing their roots from local grassroots actions to global health policy. Clark speaks with Leah Shipton, a PhD candidate specializing in global health policy, who explains how health concerns drove the formation of anti-plastic norms worldwide. They discuss the role of norm entrepreneurs in spreading these norms, the challenges posed by industry-backed anti-entrepreneurs, and how this momentum led to the UN Treaty on Plastic Pollution. This conversation ties together themes from previous episodes, setting the stage for the series finale, where the treaty itself will be explored in depth.
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It’s time to talk about a United Nations Treaty on Plastic Pollution. After months of anticipation, this episode focuses on the treaty’s negotiating process, the main actors involved, and the key interests at play. Joined by expert guest Tara Olsen, a researcher from Lund University, the conversation explores the complexities of treaty negotiations, including the differences between signing and ratifying a treaty, the influence of international law, and the possible outcomes of the upcoming final negotiation session. Packed with insights, this episode provides a deep dive into the current state of the global effort to regulate plastic pollution and what might come next.
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