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In a compelling display of advocacy and artistry, Greenpeace has unveiled a new monument that sends a powerful message to the Biden administration regarding its environmental stewardship. Titled “Biden’s Plastic Legacy,” this 15-foot sculpture, inspired by the mythological figure Atlas, showcases a globe overwhelmed by plastic pollution—a burden that, according to Greenpeace, will fall on President Joe Biden’s shoulders if decisive action isn’t taken.

The timing of the monument’s unveiling is strategic, coinciding with the lead-up to the fourth round of negotiations on a Global Plastics Treaty. The sculpture serves as a visual and symbolic reminder of the urgent need for leadership in addressing the global plastic pollution crisis. The United States, under the current administration, faces criticism for its stance in treaty negotiations, particularly its alignment with the fossil fuel industry—the leading producers of the plastics that are causing widespread environmental and health issues.

The unveiling ceremony on Capitol Grounds in Washington, DC, was not just a display of protest art but a forum for voices deeply affected by plastic pollution. Speakers like Dr. Leo Trasande and Jo Banner from Louisiana’s “Cancer Alley” shared their insights and personal experiences with plastic pollution’s health risks and community impacts. Their stories underscore the human cost of inaction and the necessity of a strong Global Plastics Treaty.

Alarming statistics and research findings support the urgency of this issue. A 2022 Greenpeace USA report highlights that over 51 million tons of plastic waste were generated in the U.S. alone, with the vast majority ending up in landfills, oceans, or the atmosphere. The health implications are dire, with thousands of chemicals in plastics linked to serious diseases, including cancer and hormonal imbalances.

The call to action is clear: the Biden administration must lead in supporting a robust Global Plastics Treaty. Such a treaty would address the immediate health and environmental concerns and pave the way for a sustainable future free from the scourge of plastic pollution. Greenpeace and its allies urge the president to seize this opportunity to forge a legacy of environmental leadership and responsibility.

This article is not just a recounting of an event; it’s a rallying cry for action, a critique of current policies, and a spotlight on the potential for positive change. As negotiations continue, the world waits to see if the U.S. will rise to the challenge.