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Deep dive: The evolution of our plastic dependency

Neil King | Natalie Muller
April 25, 2024

Plastics have only been around for a little over a century. But in that time, they've become a huge part of our lives and a growing burden for the environment. Each year, the world produces over 430 million tons of plastics, and that figure is set to triple by 2060. A binding global plastics treaty is key to solving the problem. But just how did we get here in the first place?

https://p.dw.com/p/4fBNs

Interviewees featured in this episode:

Susan Freinkel, journalist and author of the book "Plastic: A Toxic Love Story"  

Sheila Aggarwal-Khan, director of the Industry and Economy division at the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) 

*This episode has been repackaged and republished.

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Living Planet

Looking to reconnect with nature? Want to make better decisions for the health of the planet? Our weekly podcast brings you environment news you can use, along with the facts and debates on the key issues of our time.