Join us for this compelling episode of the Climate Emergency Forum, hosted by Herb Simmens, as we delve into the critical issue of plastics and their profound connection to the climate crisis.
This video was recorded on April 2nd, 2025, and published on April 13th, 2025, and represents the opinions of the discussion participants.
The discussion explores the pervasive harm caused by plastics—particularly microplastics—and their alarming impact on environmental health, human health, and food security. Drawing inspiration from the iconic 1967 film The Graduate, Herb sets the stage for a thought-provoking conversation about the “great future” plastics promised and the devastating consequences they now pose.
Dr. Peter Carter highlights the catastrophic effects of microplastics on crop yields and photosynthesis—the foundation of life on Earth. He explains how microplastics inhibit plant growth at every stage, exacerbate food insecurity, and contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions throughout their lifecycle. Paul Beckwith expands on these points by discussing how microplastics disrupt ecosystems, penetrate human biology, and degrade vital carbon sinks like oceans. Both experts emphasize the urgent need to phase out fossil fuels and transition to biodegradable alternatives.
This episode calls for bold action to address the plastification of society and its dire implications for our planet’s future. From advocating for policy changes to reimagining production processes and materials, our panelists stress the importance of systemic transformation. As always, we invite you to engage with us by liking, subscribing, sharing your thoughts in the comments, and supporting our work through donations at our website. Together, we can confront this global emergency head-on.
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Microplastics hinder plant photosynthesis, study finds, threatening millions with starvation
Dr. Peter Carter - MD, Expert IPCC Reviewer and the director of the Climate Emergency Institute
Paul Beckwith - Climate Systems Scientist. Professor at the University of Ottawa’s Paleoclimatology Laboratory as well as at Carleton University
Herb Simmens - Author, Co-founder of the Healthy Planet Action Coalition (HPAC), Climate Emergency Board Member and former college instructor.
Charles Gregoire - Electrical Engineer, Webmaster and IT prime for FacingFuture.Earth & the Climate Emergency Forum; Climate Reality Leader
Heidi Brault - Climate Reality Leader, BA(Psychology), Library & Information Technician Diploma - Video production and website assistant - Organizer and convener, Metadata technician, COP Team Lead for FacingFuture.Earth and the Climate Emergency Forum.
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