Considering the plastics problem from an Earth system (law) perspective

Du Toit, Louise (2024) Considering the plastics problem from an Earth system (law) perspective. In, Kirk, Elizabeth, Popattanachai, Naporn, Barnes, Richard and Van der Marel, Eva (eds.) Research Handbook on Plastics Regulation : Law, Policy and the Environment. (Research Handbooks in Environmental Law series) Edward Elgar Publishing.

Abstract

Earth system science reveals that the Earth functions as a complex adaptive system that is made up of interdependent and interacting physical, chemical, biological, and human components. The production, use, and disposal of plastics have been shown to have multifaceted and irreversible impacts on an interconnected Earth system. Indeed, plastics have been observed in most Earth system components, including the hydrosphere, the biosphere, and the cryosphere. It has thus been argued that plastics are a key geological indicator of the Anthropocene epoch and plastics have also been identified as an issue of high concern in regard to the ‘novel entities’ planetary boundary. The international framework that has developed in response to the plastics problem is fragmented and evidently has not been sufficient to tackle the problem. Generally, it has been argued that international environmental law (IEL) is not equipped to respond to the challenges presented by a changing Earth system. This has contributed to its ineffectiveness in halting ecological degradation, and there have been calls for IEL to give effect to an Earth system perspective including through a new paradigm termed ‘Earth system law’. With reference to an Earth system perspective and the emerging Earth system law paradigm, this chapter begins to outline elements that should be taken account of in the global response to the plastics problem.

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Contributors

Author: Louise Du Toit

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