Health concerns of plastics: energizing the global diffusion of anti-plastic norms

• DOI: 10.1080/09640568.2021.1957796
• Publication Date: 2021-09-08T08:35:56Z
• Authors: Leah Shipton; Peter Dauvergne
• Keywords: Plastic Waste

The idea that plastics can be harmful has been gaining strength since the 1990s. Resulting anti-plastic norms have diffusing unevenly around world, with different meanings, fragmented uptake, and variable policy influence. Explanations for why where gained traction highlighted power of industry, responses governments, characteristics waste management, role advocacy. Researchers yet to meaningfully explore health as a factor influencing diffusion norms. This article addresses this gap. Evidence from Bangladesh, Kenya, Bahamas, Canada reveals health-based concerns key across diverse array jurisdictions. These cases further demonstrate tendency flow early later adopters only after critical mass local actors perceive plastic locally significant problem. findings empower advocates stricter regulation.