Watch Plastic Paradise: The Great Pacific Garbage Patch

"Plastic Paradise: The Great Pacific Garbage Patch" is a 2013 documentary film that explores the unimaginable amount of plastic that has accumulated in the Pacific Ocean. The documentary is directed by Angela Sun and features Lewis Goldsmith and Wallace J. Nichols as experts on the subject matter. The movie opens with a breathtaking view of a pristine beach in Hawaii where Angela Sun grew up as a child. However, the beach that she once knew had changed incredibly over time, with plastic debris washed ashore every day. This lead her on a journey to understand the scope of this environmental disaster.

The film highlights the impact that plastic pollution has on the oceans and marine life. The Pacific Ocean is home to one of the largest and most notorious areas of plastic pollution, known as the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. This patch is made up of an estimated 80,000 tonnes of plastic, stretching over an area twice the size of Texas.

As Sun investigates the issue, she interviews various experts, including scientists, activists, and researchers, to uncover the causes and effects of plastic pollution. One of the most shocking discoveries made by Sun was that marine animals mistake plastic debris for food. The plastic they ingest can lead to malnutrition, poisoning, and even death.

Beyond the impact on marine life, the documentary also explores the impact plastic pollution has on human health. Many plastics contain toxins, and when ingested by marine life, those toxins move up the food chain to people who consume seafood. The film also highlights the devastating impact of plastic waste on the economy and the costs associated with its cleanup.

The documentary also examines the culture of convenience that has fueled the use of disposable plastics. Companies push the notion that plastic items are necessary for our day-to-day lives, but the cost to the planet is far greater than convenience. We see Sun visiting recycling facilities, landfills, and the offices of major corporations to understand how we can start to reverse this trend.

One of the most inspiring aspects of "Plastic Paradise: The Great Pacific Garbage Patch" is the call to action. The film provides numerous examples of what individuals and communities can do to make a difference. From increasing recycling efforts to supporting local businesses that are taking a stand against plastic waste, the film highlights that everyone can make a difference in protecting the planet.

Overall, "Plastic Paradise: The Great Pacific Garbage Patch" is a compelling documentary that highlights the urgent need to address plastic pollution. It's a wakeup call for everyone– from corporations to individuals– to take action and help protect our oceans, our planet, and ultimately our future.

Plastic Paradise: The Great Pacific Garbage Patch is a 2013 documentary with a runtime of 58 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.5.