THE PROBLEM
Plastic pollution is found in every corner of the globe, from the deepest ocean trenches to the remotest arctic regions. Plastics do not biodegrade, but persist in the environment for hundreds of years, then break down in tiny pieces called micro plastics. These plastic particles make their way into our food, our water, and even into us.
The Solution
To protect marine animals, defend a healthy environment and stop plastics piling up around us, governments, businesses and individuals all have a role to play. Governments must ban toxic and tough to recycle products, and create laws aimed at reducing plastic waste, eliminating throwaway plastics, and increasing recycling. Businesses must commit to reducing their plastic packaging. And individuals must do their part to support the three Rs – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.
Towards a Zero Plastic Waste Canada
Canada needs a national strategy to deal with our plastic pollution crisis. We are working towards a plastic waste free environment by 2025
Tell Ontario to protect our land and water from plastic pollution
The Ontario government recently released a discussion paper on reducing litter and waste across the province and has launched a public consultation to hear ideas on how to tackle all the waste piling up around us. This is an opportunity to have your voice heard.
Ban the Foam
Styrofoam is toxic, tough to recycle, and Canada throws out enough each year to fill 208 Olympic-sized swimming pools. Support our campaign to ban the foam.
Go Plastic-Free
Small changes can make a big difference. Check out our blog on ways to go plastic free which go beyond shopping bags and coffee mugs.
Breaking News
Plastic pollution is not your fault; why we should stop feeling guilty, and start getting angry
Reducing your plastic footprint is a fantastic thing you can do to help prevent plastic pollution. The more people who do it the better for...
Learn MoreFreaked out by plastic pollution? You've come to the right place
Welcome! This is your plastics intervention. Fret not, because you are not alone. The first step towards breaking free is to face the facts and...
Learn MoreCanada's Plastic Pollution Problem - Watch the Video
Did you know that in Canada less than 11 per cent of plastic is recycled? Watch this video to learn more.
Learn MoreDon’t mop the floor while the tap is still running; why cleanups are not the solution to Ontario’s plastic problem
As spring approaches and the mounds of snow and ice finally start to melt away, a familiar sight emerges. Garbage. Plastic bottles, cans, plastic bags,...
Learn MoreWHAT YOU CAN DO
Big problems require big solutions, and all of us can help make the changes we want to see. By signing petitions and attending events, you can make your voice heard and help to affect change.
Timeline
"Seeing the amount of plastics that end up on our beaches reminds me of how powerful it is to avoid single-use waste like take-out cups, and replace them with reusables. Our actions can be amplified with strong environmental laws. That's why I support Environmental Defence's aim of getting manufacturers to take responsibility for their own products, and reducing Canada's plastic waste."
-Sophie Jacazio, Environmental Defence Outreach Team member
MEET THE TEAM
At Environmental Defence, we educate the public about a host of environmental issues, work with business and government leaders to advise on policy decisions and mobilize Canadians to create the cleaner, greener more prosperous country we’re striving for. Meet the team who works on Plastics.
Join The Community
Change happens when people like you express your concern and make your voice heard. Join our email community to receive updates about Environmental Defence’s work and find ways you can help our efforts to defend clean water, a safe climate and healthy communities.