New J-term Course: ENV223 Plastics – Miracle or Curse?

This 3 credit course will be delivered online, asynchronously.

In this course, we will attempt to answer the following question: are plastics a miracle or a curse? We will explore the differences between natural and synthetic plastics, and how plastic production (and recycling) has changed since the 19th century. We will also evaluate our individual reliance on synthetic plastics – and consider how it is possible that plastics not only help humanity and the environment but also cause significant harm. Finally, we will study how issues associated with plastic use extend well beyond the solid waste stream in landfills to the Great Garbage Patches of the world’s oceans. You will have the opportunity to inventory your plastic use and recycling and share your information and thoughts on this subject through various platforms and reflective writing assignments.

By Courtney McGinnis
Courtney McGinnis Associate Professor of Biology and Academic Coordinator of Experiential Learning, Department of Biological Sciences