Three case studies in plastic pollution rolled into one, Single-Use Planet begins in Beaver County, Pennsylvania. There, the locals argue with the state government about the necessity for a sprawling ethane cracker plant. Locals point to already polluted natural resources and water supplies from the long-gone steel industry, but their leadership, tempted by lobbying kickbacks, insist that massive tax breaks are needed just as much as the huge facility.
From there, the film moves to Louisiana’s infamous cancer alley, exploring the connections between historic black communities and the construction of environment and health-harming industry. Upriver, we find ourselves in the nation’s seat of power to see how big money influences the political system, and why environmental efforts have been so unsuccessful since the science on climate change and conspicuous consumption came out in the 1970s.
The style of documentary in Single-Use Planet trends old-school and a bit dry. In an attempt to alleviate this, some Schoolhouse Rock-esque musical interludes separate each chapter of the documentary. This will help with its appeal to a younger audience. As an adult, I could take it or leave it, but it did serve as a good bookend for each topic.
For its deep dive into the political corruption that has become so commonplace since Citizens United passed, Single-Use Planet would be of interest both to instructors of politics and economics who touch on environmental issues. Public libraries should think about adding this documentary to environment or activism documentary shelves. In all, Single-Use Planet is a great choice for environmentalism collections. Recommended.
How can Single-Use Planet be integrated into public libraries’ collection development?
Single-Use Planet should be included in public library collections focusing on environmental activism, political corruption, and public health. It would be particularly useful for patrons interested in environmental justice, grassroots activism, and the societal impacts of climate change.
What college courses and majors could benefit from using Single-Use Planet?
College courses in political science, environmental studies, economics, and sociology could benefit from this documentary. It is particularly relevant to classes exploring environmental policy, climate change, and systemic inequities caused by industrial pollution.
How could Parks and Recreation programs use Single-Use Planet in their educational initiatives?
Parks and Recreation programs could use Single-Use Planet to support community education events on sustainability and pollution. It could also be shown as part of Earth Day celebrations or workshops aimed at encouraging recycling, reducing single-use plastics, and raising awareness of local environmental challenges.
What are the Public Performance Rights (PPR) considerations for screening Single-Use Planet?
To screen Single-Use Planet at public events, Parks and Recreation programs or other organizations must acquire Public Performance Rights. These rights would allow it to be shown legally during community events, workshops, and environmental awareness campaigns.
How could Single-Use Planet enhance special events on college campuses?
Single-Use Planet could be screened during campus sustainability weeks or as part of speaker panels featuring environmental activists or experts. It would also serve as a conversation starter for workshops or discussions about the intersection of environmentalism, politics, and community health.
Why is Single-Use Planet a strong candidate for movie licensing?
Single-Use Planet is an excellent licensing candidate because of its relevance to multiple disciplines, including politics, economics, and environmental science. Its case studies on real-world environmental challenges and their political and economic underpinnings make it a valuable educational resource for both public and academic audiences.