How can we work together to resolve the plastic waste crisis?

Understand the issue/Know the facts:

• Watch the 17 minute documentary from 2020 entitled, "New Mexicans Taking Action on the Plastic Waste" HERE
• Background Information: Learn why the Break Free From Plastic Pollution Act was introduced at the federal level in both 2020 and 2021 HERE

New Mexicans Taking Action on Plastic Waste is a short-form documentary film that explores the financial and environmental costs of plastic waste and the bi-products of plastic material production in New Mexico. The film highlights the actions of ordinary New Mexicans who are taking on this crisis and draws on commentary from interviews with 22 individuals (concerned citizens, local activists, and elected officials). The film investigates the impact and true cost of plastic pollution in our waterways and natural environment as well as examines the complexities of plastic recycling and the financial and environmental costs of disposal unique to our state. The project is intended to raise public awareness of the issue and spark debate and spur further discussion.

Greg Polk, Director / Producer

Mr. Polk began his career as a Peace Corps volunteer in the early 1970s. He later obtained a masters degree in city planning from MIT, served as assistant director for commercial development with the City of Boston in the 1980s, and as housing development director for the City of Albuquerque from 1990 to 1996. From 1997 to 2016, he worked overseas as an advisor to public private partnership projects in countries including India, Poland, South Africa, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Mali, Egypt and a dozen more. It was during this period that he witnessed the rapid increase in plastic use and began looking into the environmental damage of plastics and the challenges of recycling and plastic waste management. In 2016 he and his wife returned to New Mexico where he now pursues independent documentary filmmaking.

Work towards a single-use plastic ban in your community!