Exxon’s “Campaign of Deception”
Written by Nate Pope
The state of California recently sued Exxon Mobil, a multibillion-dollar oil megacorporation, proposing that Exxon exaggerated the benefits of recycling plastic and contributed to a pollution crisis.
The lawsuit argued that people were more likely to purchase plastic goods because they thought these products would be recycled. Exxon Mobil is one of the largest producers of polymers used to make single-use plastics. Rob Bonta, the attorney general of California, said plastic pollutants are “fueled by the myth of recycling, and the leader among them in perpetuating that myth is Exxon Mobil”. Exxon responded by blaming California for having an ineffective system of recycling, trying to shift the responsibility to them.
Many environmental groups are saying that California is setting a precedent for the government to combat companies deceiving the public about plastic recycling. The suit alleged that promoting the “chasing arrows” symbol on plastics led consumers to believe that their products would be recycled if disposed of properly. However, only around five percent of plastic in the United States gets recycled every year, according to Bonta’s office, citing an estimate from the group Beyond Plastics. This lawsuit raises an important question: is simply throwing plastic away better for the environment than recycling?
The case highlights the importance of large corporations needing a higher level of accountability but also shows that we need to change our behavior as well. The inefficient process of plastic recycling requires substantial resources and energy. In many instances, this creates a heavier burden on the environment than simply throwing plastic out. By acknowledging this, we can reevaluate our approach to plastic use and disposal to better prioritize environmental sustainability.
Ultimately, the most effective way to reduce the toll of plastic waste is to limit our use of plastic in the first place. Simple changes can make a significant impact: instead of drinking bottled water, use a reusable cup or a water fountain. Opt for larger packages of food instead of individually wrapped snacks. By adopting these habits and advocating for systemic changes, we can work toward a more sustainable future and reduce our reliance on plastics altogether.
