Plastics, Risk/Benefit Analysis, and Environmental Legislation

Overview:
In Part A, students explore their personal use of plastic products and try to conduct a simplified risk/benefit analysis for a plastic product they commonly use.  They also explore the use of risk/benefit analysis for making both personal and societal decisions.  In Part B, students learn about various national and international regulatory efforts that address the improper disposal of plastic and other items in the aquatic environment.  Students then research other legislation that has been enacted to reduce various risks to human health and the environment.

Student Pages:
Regulatory Framework for Controlling Aquatic Pollution

Earth & Sky Radio Correlations
This activity can be supplemented with related Earth & Sky radio shows that you can download for use in your classroom. Learn about the PLT and Earth & Sky Initiative.

Related Earth & Sky Shows:
- Geoffrey Coates Creates Greener Plastics
- Marcus Eriksen Describes Ocean Gyre of Plastic Garbage 
- Anthony Andrady Says Plastics in Ocean Biodegrade Slowly