ENGINEERING ETHICS

Environmental Ethics Case

Study
An Environmental Responsibility



I. THE CASE: Background of the Study

Plastics are synthetic materials that has become one of the biggest problem not
only in our country but also around the world. It composes the largest number of
waste produced everyday. It pollutes most of our land and waterways. And
because of it, numerous disasters simultaneously occurs unexpectedly. This
uncontrollable series of events has led different countries including Philippines to
pursue a plastic-free society. The act consist of prohibiting the use of plastic
material and provide an alternative to its purpose. This aims to reduce the use of
non-biodegradable materials that has been causing the drainage blockage and
eventually causes disasters, such as flash floods.

II. ETHICAL DILEMMA

It will cause unemployment as plastic firms would be forced to downsize. Many
workers in the plastic/styrofoam industry will lose their jobs and income to
provide for their familys needs.
Plastic manufacturing/distributing firms may/will start decreasing
production/sales and profit eventually. This may cause their shutdown in the
long run.
Alternative containers such as cloth bags and paper bags are more expensive
to produce as more trees are needed to be cut down.

III. SOLUTION

o Firms producing or distributing plastics could shift to production or distribution
of paper bags and eco bags.
o Strict implementation of plastic ban should also be observed. It should be
standardized so people would not be confused on what or where plastics are
banned.
o Other sources of material, such as water hyacinth and bamboo can be use in
producing reusable bags.

IV. EXPECTED RESULT

For many years, people have been accustomed in using plastic material as
packaging. It would take time for the whole country, its people and different
industry to adjust in creating a plastic -free environment. Such implementation
would literally need to be taken one step at a time.

V. RECOMMENDATION

Our country should carry further the implementation of this act until we achieve its
purpose. Discipline should be promoted in an effective way so that people would be
able to understand the negative impact to the environment of everyones action. The
governement can provide employment for those who have been affected by this
campaign through putting them in production of reusable bags. Extensive research
should be held in order to discover alternative material that can be used in making
eco-friendly bags.

The prohibition of using plastics has its advantage and disadvantages. It helps our
environment by reducing the pollution brought by these non-biodegradable
materials. On the other hand, people working in plastic manufacuring companies will
lose their jobs. But the act benefits the environment a lot. There is always sacrifice in
moving toward a good path. And this affects only a few and benefits the many.