"Canada Wants to Ban Single-Use Plastics"

Question

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.

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Question
Use the article to answer the question.

In 3–5 sentences, explain how the writer uses valid reasoning to develop an overall argument.

(4 points)

Answer 1

The writer employs valid reasoning by presenting a balanced view of the proposed ban on single-use plastics, citing both the potential benefits and limitations of the measure. They emphasize the environmental and economic advantages, such as reducing litter, lowering carbon pollution, and creating jobs. However, by incorporating the perspective of Max Liboiron, the writer highlights concerns regarding the persistence of plastic in the environment and the ineffectiveness of recycling efforts. This nuanced approach strengthens the overall argument by acknowledging the complexity of the issue and the need for broader strategies to combat plastic pollution beyond just bans.