A recent survey conducted by Data for Progress and the Center for Climate Integrity has shed light on growing concerns about plastic pollution among US voters.

The poll, conducted between 15 and 17 August 2024, surveyed 1,231 likely voters. The results show a strong desire for government action on plastic waste and its environmental impact.

The survey reflects a representative sample of the US population based on key demographic factors such as age, gender, race, and political affiliation, with a margin of error of approximately plus or minus three percentage points.

Rising public awareness of microplastics

One of the key takeaways from the survey is the increasing awareness of microplastics in the human body.

A significant 85% of respondents expressed concern about the presence of microplastics, a startling indicator of how this issue has permeated public consciousness.

This level of concern underscores a larger, global shift in attitudes towards plastic waste and its far-reaching impacts on human health and the environment.

Sian Sutherland, co-founder of the Plastic Health Council, remarked: "The public opinion on plastic has never been clearer; with 85% of the US being concerned with microplastics in the human body...the huge mandate for the US government to take action against the petro-polluters ravaging our planet and bodies is startling."

Desire for accountability and legislative action

In addition to the widespread concern about microplastics, the survey found that 70% of respondents support holding plastic producers and the fossil fuel industry accountable for their role in environmental degradation.

This strong call for accountability reflects growing frustration with the lack of comprehensive legislation to address the issue of plastic waste.

Sutherland emphasised the need for immediate governmental intervention, saying: "For decades, campaigners, the public and scientists alike have been crying out for governments around the world to put into place legislation that ensures accountability and enforces protections against plastic’s insidious impact."

The road to a global plastics treaty

The upcoming UN Global Plastics Treaty negotiations in November have put pressure on policymakers to make substantial progress on this issue.

However, previous negotiation rounds have faced significant hurdles, largely due to lobbying efforts from industries with vested interests.

The findings from the survey serve as a timely reminder of the urgency for action, as delays in implementing effective policies will only exacerbate the plastic health crisis.

Sutherland expressed optimism but also highlighted the challenges ahead: "With the final round of negotiations for a UN Global Plastics Treaty over the horizon in November, there has never been a better moment for policymakers to deliver the change we so desperately need. To date, negotiations have been severely hampered by the swathes of lobbyists aiming to ringfence their profits...Legislative action is essential."

The takeaway

The Data for Progress survey reveals a strong and growing demand for decisive action on plastic waste from US voters.

With heightened awareness of the dangers posed by microplastics and a clear mandate for holding producers accountable, there is mounting pressure on both national and international policymakers.

The upcoming UN Global Plastics Treaty negotiations present a critical opportunity to address this issue on a global scale, but success will depend on overcoming the barriers posed by industry interests.