Plastic Pollution in Soil, Water & Air: From Small Particles to Great Solutions from edX

The Menace of Widespread Plastic Pollution Today almost everyone has heard about the omnipresence of plastics. Plastic production has reached a critical level, infiltrating every aspect of our lives, from household items to industrial products. Not only do we find plastic litter in our cities and on our beaches. Plastic ends up as tiny particles in our food, drinking water and the air we breathe.

With that, plastic pollution has become a severe threat to our environment and health. The biggest problem is related to the degradation of plastic materials into micro plastics and nano plastics. These small particles easily move between different environmental systems.

Explore the life cycle of Plastic ParticlesOur renowned experts will take you along for a deep dive into the life cycle of plastic:

Sources: How plastic products enter the environment from different sources, causing land, air and water pollution;
Transport: How plastic waste spreads via the continuous movement of the cycle of plastics;
Effects: The effects of micro plastics on the environment, our food chain and human health; and
Risks: The risks of plastic pollution and how to assess the extent.

You will learn about how plastic moves through the earth system, breaking down into tiny plastic particles. Understand how these particles enter the air, soil, and water, and how they adversely affect life in all these systems.

Unraveling Plastic: Methods, Insights, and Interactive LearningJoin our team of international experts, like Dr. Esperanza Huerta Lwanga, Dr. Mahrooz Rezaei and Dr. Bart Koelmans. Learn to understand each step of the plastic cycle. Learn how to best study plastic pollution by reviewing different methods, like field research, lab research and computer modelling. Use the course's online videos and lectures, inspiring podcasts, reading materials, and interactive sessions with quizzes.

Solutions: Risk Assessment, Environmental Standards, and Stakeholder EngagementThis course on plastic particles also focuses on finding solutions. To protect our future and make a sustainable world, it's crucial to decrease plastic production and adopt eco-friendly alternatives. You will learn how to assess the risks of plastic pollution and the importance of environmental management standards. Additionally, understand how different stakeholders and interest groups, such as NGOs, play a crucial role in reducing plastic pollution.

For whom is this course?Are you interested in plastics in the environment? More specifically, are you a professional working in the plastic industry, environmentalist or policy maker?

Broaden your knowledge about plastics and its impact on the environment. Gain an understanding of the possible solutions – from reducing plastic production to the recycling of plastic. Enrol now for this innovative online course on plastic waste reduction!

What's inside

Learning objectives

Understand the causes and sources of plastic pollution in the biosphere.
Explain the transport pathways and fate of plastic (macro, micro and nanoplastics) in the environment

Assess the risk of plastic pollution and the role of standards in environmental management
Understand the different roles of stakeholders and interest groups taking action to reduce plastic pollution (ngo)

Understand the causes and sources of plastic pollution in the biosphere.
Explain the transport pathways and fate of plastic (macro, micro and nanoplastics) in the environment
Assess the risk of plastic pollution and the role of standards in environmental management
Understand the different roles of stakeholders and interest groups taking action to reduce plastic pollution (ngo)

Syllabus

General introduction

Introduction

Soil

Air

Water

Risk Assessment

Solutions

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Explores the widespread presence of plastic pollution and its detrimental effects on the environment and health, making it highly relevant to environmentalists, policymakers, and professionals working in the plastic industry

Taught by renowned experts in the field of plastic pollution research, including Dr. Esperanza Huerta Lwanga, Dr. Mahrooz Rezaei, and Dr. Bart Koelmans, providing learners with access to cutting-edge knowledge and insights

Covers the entire life cycle of plastic particles, from their sources and transport to their effects and risks, providing a comprehensive understanding of the issue

Utilizes a range of learning materials, including videos, lectures, podcasts, and interactive sessions, to cater to diverse learning styles and preferences

Emphasizes practical solutions to reduce plastic pollution, including risk assessment, environmental standards, and stakeholder engagement

Provides opportunities for learners to engage with experts and other participants through interactive sessions and online discussions

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Plastic Pollution in Soil, Water & Air: From Small Particles to Great Solutions with these activities:

Review the basics of plastic pollution

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Refresh your knowledge on the fundamentals of plastic pollution and its environmental impact to prepare for the course.

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Read through the course materials provided in the syllabus.
Review your notes from previous courses or textbooks on environmental science.
Search for reputable online resources or articles on the topic.

Join a study group or discussion forum on plastic pollution

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Enhance your understanding and engage with fellow learners by joining a community where you can discuss and exchange ideas about plastic pollution.

Browse courses on Collaborative Learning

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Identify online forums or social media groups focused on plastic pollution.
Join the group and actively participate in discussions.
Share your insights, ask questions, and connect with other learners.

Volunteer for a local organization working on plastic pollution

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Gain practical experience and contribute to the fight against plastic pollution by volunteering with a local organization.

Browse courses on Community Involvement

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Research and identify local organizations involved in plastic pollution reduction.
Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
Participate in cleanup drives, educational campaigns, or other activities organized by the organization.

Four other activities

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Complete practice questions on plastic pollution effects

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Reinforce your knowledge of the effects of plastic pollution on the environment and human health by completing practice questions.

Browse courses on Environmental Impact

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Access the online practice questions provided in the course platform.
Solve the questions using the concepts and theories covered in the course.
Review your answers and identify areas for improvement.

Develop a poster or infographic on plastic pollution

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Enhance your understanding and communication skills by creating a visual representation of the key concepts related to plastic pollution.

Browse courses on Environmental Advocacy

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Gather information and data on plastic pollution from reputable sources.
Identify the key messages and statistics you want to convey.
Design and create your poster or infographic using appropriate visuals and text.
Share your creation with others to raise awareness about plastic pollution.

Contribute to an open-source project related to plastic pollution

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Advance your technical skills and make a meaningful contribution to the field of plastic pollution by participating in an open-source project.

Browse courses on Software Development

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Identify open-source projects focused on plastic pollution research, data collection, or educational resources.
Review the project documentation and code.
Identify areas where you can contribute your skills and knowledge.
Propose your contributions to the project maintainers.

Participate in a hackathon or competition on plastic pollution solutions

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Apply your knowledge and challenge yourself by participating in a competition to develop innovative solutions to address plastic pollution.

Browse courses on Innovation

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Identify relevant competitions or hackathons focused on plastic pollution.
Form a team and brainstorm ideas for potential solutions.
Develop and refine your solution, taking into account feasibility and impact.
Present your solution to the competition judges and receive feedback.

Career center

Learners who complete Plastic Pollution in Soil, Water & Air: From Small Particles to Great Solutions will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Pollution Prevention Specialist

Pollution Prevention Specialists analyze and evaluate industrial processes and waste management practices to identify opportunities to reduce or eliminate pollution. This course will provide them with a comprehensive understanding of the sources, transport pathways, and environmental impacts of plastic pollution, enabling them to develop and implement effective pollution prevention strategies in various industries.

See salaries and explore the career path for Pollution Prevention Specialist

Toxicologist

Toxicologists study the harmful effects of toxic substances on humans and the environment. This course will provide them with a thorough understanding of the toxicity of plastics and the risks associated with exposure to plastic particles. It will also equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to assess the risks of plastic pollution and to develop strategies to mitigate these risks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Toxicologist

Environmental Policy Analyst

Environmental Policy Analysts develop and analyze environmental policies to address environmental issues, such as plastic pollution. This course will provide them with a solid understanding of the science behind plastic pollution and the risks associated with it. It will also equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to develop effective and evidence-based policies to address this issue.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Policy Analyst

Environmental Consultant

Environmental Consultants provide consulting services to businesses and organizations on environmental issues, including plastic pollution. This course will provide them with a comprehensive understanding of the sources, transport pathways, and environmental impacts of plastic pollution. It will also equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to assess the risks of plastic pollution and to develop and implement effective mitigation strategies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Consultant

Circular Economy Specialist

Circular Economy Specialists design and implement strategies to reduce waste and promote resource efficiency. This course will provide them with a comprehensive understanding of the sources, transport pathways, and environmental impacts of plastic pollution. It will also equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to develop and implement effective strategies for reducing plastic pollution and promoting the circular economy.

See salaries and explore the career path for Circular Economy Specialist

Climate Scientist

Climate Scientists study the Earth's climate system, including the role of the oceans and atmosphere in plastic pollution. This course will provide them with a deep understanding of the environmental impacts of plastic pollution, including its contribution to climate change. It will also equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to assess the risks of plastic pollution to climate and to develop and implement effective mitigation strategies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Climate Scientist

Geochemist

Geochemists study the chemical composition of the Earth and its materials. This course will provide them with a deep understanding of the fate and transport of plastics in the environment, including the role of geochemical processes in the breakdown and accumulation of plastics. It will also equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to assess the environmental impacts of plastic pollution and to develop strategies to mitigate these impacts.

See salaries and explore the career path for Geochemist

Environmental Engineer

Environmental Engineers apply engineering principles to protect the environment and to develop sustainable solutions to environmental challenges like plastic pollution. This course will help them to develop an understanding of the fate and transport of plastics in the environment, and to design and implement effective strategies for mitigating the adverse effects of plastic pollution.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Engineer

Conservation Scientist

Conservation Scientists work to protect, preserve, and restore natural ecosystems and the species that inhabit them. They utilize scientific research to understand threats to the environment and to develop and implement solutions to address these issues. Taking this course will help Conservation Scientists understand one of the most pervasive anthropogenic threats to ecosystems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Conservation Scientist

Oceanographer

Oceanographers study the oceans, including the role of plastics in marine ecosystems. This course will provide them with a thorough understanding of the sources, transport, and fate of plastics in marine environments. It will also equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to assess the risks of plastic pollution to marine ecosystems and to develop and implement effective mitigation strategies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Oceanographer

Water Resource Specialist

Water Resource Specialists manage and protect water resources, including surface water and groundwater. This course will provide them with a thorough understanding of the sources, transport, and fate of plastics in aquatic environments. It will also equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to assess the risks of plastic pollution to water resources and to develop and implement effective mitigation strategies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Water Resource Specialist

Soil Scientist

Soil Scientists study the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil, including the role of plastics in soil health. This course will provide them with a deep understanding of the fate and transport of plastics in soil, including the effects of plastic pollution on soil health and fertility. It will also equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to assess the risks of plastic pollution to soil and to develop and implement effective mitigation strategies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Soil Scientist

Environmental Educator

Environmental Educators develop and deliver educational programs on environmental issues, including plastic pollution. This course will provide them with a deep understanding of the environmental impacts of plastic pollution and the risks associated with exposure to plastic particles. It will also equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to educate the public about plastic pollution and to promote sustainable behaviors.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Educator

Chemical Engineer

Chemical Engineers design and optimize chemical processes and products. This course will help future Chemical Engineers understand the role of plastics in the chemical industry and the environmental impacts associated with plastic production and waste. It will also equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to design and develop sustainable chemical processes and products.

See salaries and explore the career path for Chemical Engineer

Environmental Scientist

Environmental Scientists help to ensure that organizations involved in industry and manufacturing adhere to environmental regulations and do not adversely affect the environment. An understanding of the transmission of plastics into the biosphere and the resultant risks associated with it will be extremely valuable to these professionals.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Scientist