The writer employs valid reasoning by highlighting the potential benefits of a ban on single-use plastics, such as reducing litter, cutting carbon pollution, and stimulating job creation. By citing the insights of environmental scientist Max Liboiron, the article acknowledges the excitement surrounding the initiative while also emphasizing the complexities and limitations of addressing plastic pollution. Furthermore, the discussion of the long-term environmental impact of plastics and the low recycling rates provides a solid foundation for the argument, illustrating the urgency of the issue. This balanced approach enhances the credibility of the argument by recognizing both the positive intentions of the policy and its potential shortcomings.
Canada Wants to Ban Single-Use Plastics"
by Vicky Stein
From Vancouver to Halifax, plastic plates, plastic bags and plastic straws may be on their way out. But a possible country-wide prohibition on certain single-use plastic products may not address the spread of the most insidious plastic litter, some scientists say.
According to Canadian officials, the potential bans — which could go into effect as early as 2021 — would not only curb litter but also cut nearly 2 million tons of carbon pollution. They claim the policy would also stimulate the economy by creating 42,000 jobs.
“I am, like a lot of scientists, excited, with a lot of caveats,” said Max Liboiron, an environmental scientist at Memorial University in Newfoundland.
Plastics can persist for hundreds, if not thousands of years in the environment. Plastic litter can entangle and kill wildlife, or break down into tiny particles — microplastics — that collect and leach out heavy metals or harmful chemicals. While recycling can repurpose plastic materials into other products, fewer than 10 percent of plastics are actually recycled. The bulk of recyclable plastic is currently in limbo, as countries in Asia have shut their doors to shipments of other nations’ trash.
In 3–5 sentences, explain how the writer uses valid reasoning to develop an overall argument.
3 answers
The writer uses valid reasoning to argue for banning single-use plastics by discussing both the benefits and challenges of the policy. They mention that the ban could reduce litter and carbon pollution while also creating jobs, which sounds promising. By quoting environmental scientist Max Liboiron, the article shows that there is excitement about the plan but also some concerns about its effectiveness. Additionally, the writer explains how plastic harms the environment and points out that very few plastics are recycled. This balance of positive and negative aspects makes the argument stronger and more convincing.