California Sues Oil Company Over Plastic Recycling Claims
Ask students: What is plastic made from? Who is harmed by ExxonMobile's plastic production, according to the lawsuit?
A new lawsuit accuses ExxonMobil of contributing to the world’s plastic pollution. The oil and gas company is one of the largest producers of the material used to make single-use plastics. California Attorney General Rob Bonta filed the lawsuit following a two-year investigation. He joined Amna Nawaz to discuss the case.
View the transcript of the story.
Discussion Questions
- Where is the lawsuit against ExxonMobile being file?
- What is plastic made from?
- Who is harmed by ExxonMobile's plastic production, according to the lawsuit?
- How did Exxon deceive the public about plastics, according to the lawsuit?
- Why is California filing this lawsuit now?
Focus Questions
California Attorney General Rob Bonta argues that people continue to use single-use plastics because they have been deceived into thinking the products are being recycled into other useful products after use.
- Do you think it's important to reduce plastic consumption?
- If so, do you think better information about the limits of plastic recycling would help reduce consumption? Why or why not?
- What strategies might better help reduce plastic waste?
Media literacy: What are some of the arguments based on data does the California Attorney General use in making his argument in this interview? How could you determine whether that data is accurate?
Extension Activity
Have you thought about creative ways you can reduce plastic pollution or waste in your own community? Watch the video below and then discuss — what technological solutions seem most helpful in reducing plastic? What cultural or social solutions might be effective?
Republished with permission from PBS NewsHour Classroom.
PBS News Hour Classroom helps teachers and students identify the who, what, where and why-it-matters of the major national and international news stories. The site combines the best of News Hour's reliable, trustworthy news program with lesson plans developed specifically for... See More
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