The global plastic crisis isn’t just about consumer waste; it’s a deliberate expansion driven by fossil fuel giants. A new book, “Plastic Inc.” by journalist Beth Gardiner, exposes how major corporations – including ExxonMobil and Saudi Aramco – are actively increasing plastic production while shifting blame onto individuals.
The Shift in Focus: From Waste to Production
Most public discourse centers on managing plastic waste: littered beaches, harmed wildlife, or personal reduction efforts. However, the core issue is the relentless increase in plastic creation fueled by petrochemical interests. While consumers are encouraged to use less plastic, companies like Exxon and Saudi Aramco are actively scaling up production for the coming years.
Corporate Strategies: Disinformation and Lobbying
Gardiner’s research reveals tactics directly mirroring those used by Big Tobacco and Big Oil: aggressive disinformation campaigns, blaming consumers for pollution, and ruthless political lobbying. The industry isn’t passively responding to demand; it’s actively creating it.
“We’ve lost the focus on where plastic is coming from… the fossil fuel and petrochemical industries. They are ramping up to increase plastic production.” – Beth Gardiner
This isn’t an accidental byproduct of economic forces. It’s a calculated move by powerful companies to secure future profits, even as plastic pollution worsens and climate change accelerates. The current system isn’t about fixing the problem; it’s about maximizing plastic output.
The reality is that until the source of the plastic crisis is addressed – namely the fossil fuel industry’s drive for expansion – efforts to reduce waste will remain largely symbolic. The focus must shift from individual responsibility to corporate accountability.
