Great Lakes Plastic Pollution Flashcard

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What are microbeads?

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Microbeads are tiny plastic particles, often found in personal care products like exfoliating scrubs, that can contribute to water pollution.

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Which state was the first to ban microbeads?

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Illinois was the first state to ban microbeads.

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What is extended producer responsibility (EPR)?

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EPR is a policy approach where producers are held responsible for the entire lifecycle of their products, including disposal and recycling.

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What is the purpose of the Adopt-a-Beach program?

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The Adopt-a-Beach program aims to clean up plastic pollution from beaches and promote community involvement in environmental stewardship.

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What is a significant problem with recycling efforts?

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Only a fraction of plastic can be recycled, leading to a large amount of waste.

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How much plastic pollution ends up in the Great Lakes every year?

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Approximately 22 million pounds of plastic pollution ends up in the Great Lakes each year.

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What are the environmental impacts of plastic pollution in water bodies?

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Plastic pollution can harm aquatic life, disrupt ecosystems, and contaminate drinking water sources.

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What is the role of consumers in reducing plastic pollution?

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Consumers can reduce plastic pollution by minimizing single-use plastics, recycling properly, and supporting sustainable products.

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What are some common sources of plastic pollution?

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Common sources include plastic bags, bottles, packaging, and microplastics from personal care products.

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What is the significance of the Great Lakes?

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The Great Lakes are the largest group of freshwater lakes in the world, providing drinking water, recreation, and habitat for wildlife.