Addicted to Plastic

Addicted to Plastic investigates the pervasive impact of plastic on our environment and society. Hosted by Ian Connacher, it spans 12 countries across five continents, including two trips to the middle of the Pacific Ocean where plastic debris accumulates.

The documentary traces the history of plastic over the last century, highlighting its path from production to disposal. It showcases the material’s versatility and widespread use, while also revealing the darker side of its ubiquity – the worldwide waste and toxic legacy it has created.

Throughout the film, Connacher interviews a diverse range of experts who provide insights into the complex issues surrounding plastic pollution. These specialists discuss practical and cutting-edge solutions to address the problems of recycling, toxicity, and biodegradability. The film not only presents the challenges but also introduces the men and women dedicated to cleaning up plastic waste and developing innovative approaches to mitigate its environmental impact.

One of the most striking segments of the documentary focuses on the North Pacific Central Gyre, also known as the Eastern Garbage Patch. This area, where air pressure and rotating water currents cause floating trash to accumulate at the water’s surface, serves as a stark illustration of the extent of plastic pollution in our oceans.

The film goes beyond simply presenting the problem, offering a hopeful perspective on our future relationship with plastic. It highlights advancements in degradable plastics and other technological solutions that could potentially reduce the environmental footprint of this widely used material.