Educational Media Reviews Online

Did you ever wonder what happens to the plastic bottle after you finish the water? If you have, then Oceans of Plastic is a must see for you. This well crafted story explains what happens to all the plastics, including bottles, which we discard daily. The film explores the enormous amount of plastic waste that ends up in the world’s oceans and the particularly sad effect on the animal and plant populations. The injuries sustained by the animals is a bit shocking and this film does not sugar coat them. Human health effects are also examined since plastic releases chemicals as it breaks down.

Oceans of Plastic is a well balanced piece giving ample time to both sides of the plastic controversy. On one hand you have the environmentalists that are concerned with the huge amount of plastic waste and its effects. On the other, are views from a plastic manufacturer as well as others who understand that plastics have a place in our world. The difficulty, as shown by the film, is finding a balance so that the benefits of plastics are not outweighed by the negatives.

The photography is well done and the scenes are well edited so the piece flows. The musical selections fit perfectly with the theme of the film.

This film is recommended for the intended audience. The message of the film transcends all barriers allowing everyone to relate to the subject matter. You may rethink the plastic waste you create.

College and university libraries with programs in environmental studies would benefit from having this in their collection. Public libraries, especially those serving more environmentally conscious patrons, should include this in their collections.