Should our community ban use of plastic water bottles?

Introduction

Let's say your local government is debating a new law that would prohibit the sale of plastic water bottles that are only used once in parks and public buildings. This, according to others, would lessen pollution and protect the environment. Some believe it would be unfair to customers and inconvenient. It is your responsibility to look into both sides of the debate and provide the town council with a recommendation.

Task

You will serve as your community's advisor on environmental policy.You will write a one page recommendation letter to the town council after looking over the websites that have been provided. explains how plastic water bottles affect the environment. lists at least two advantages of a prohibition. lists at least two disadvantages of a ban. suggests whether or not the town should enforce the prohibition. provide evidence from the websites to back up your recommendation.

Process

Step 1: Visit the following website and read about the environmental effects of plastic waste: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/article/plastic-pollution

Make notes on: Plastic bottle related environmental issues,

Impacts on ecosystems and wildlife Facts or numbers that improve your understanding

Step 2: Visit the following website: https://www.epa.gov/trash-free-waters

Identify: Possible solutions for plastic waste, Advantages of cutting less on plastic use, and why communities may encounter difficulties when putting changes into practice.

Step 3: Create a T chart one side reasons to ban and the other side reasons we shouldn't and list a 2-3 reasons why on both sides

Step 4: Write a one page letter explaining what you believe to the local council.

Proof to back up your claims and how the community will benefit from your suggestion

Evaluation
Rubric
Criteria 4 points 3 points 2 points 1 points
Research Uses evidence from both websites accurately Uses evidence from both websites small errors uses some evidence uses little or no evidence
Analysis Clearly explains both sides Explains some aspects of both sides Explains one side well Incorrect data
Recommendation Clear, logical and strongly supported Clear and supported Somewhat supported Unclear
Writing Well organized organized with small errors somewhat organized with errors Hard to understand

 

Conclusion

Community leaders often have to make tough choices that must strike a balance between public safety, economic effects, and environmental considerations. You have made use of the same critical-thinking abilities that lawmakers and community leaders do on a daily basis by looking at other viewpoints and providing evidence to back up your suggestions.

 

Credits
Teacher Page