What Are the Liability Risks for Plastic Pollution?

September 20, 2023

Plastic production across the globe continues to grow, and plastic-related pollution and litigation is an ongoing problem. It has been estimated that corporate liabilities will exceed $20 billion from 2022 to 2030.

Plastics have chemicals that can be non-biodegradable and harmful to people and the environment; the waste breaks down into microplastics and nanoplastics that can be smaller than 5 millimeters.

The World Health Organization (WHO) stated that more research is needed to determine the long-term effects of ingesting plastics. In addition, the UN Environment Programme shared information showing that additives in plastic can negatively impact animals’ hormonal systems and could lead to cancer, gene mutation, and lung inflammation in humans.

The Potential Liability Risks for Plastic Pollution

• Damage to the environment: Industry regulators can initiate claims focused on environmental liability that target the release of harmful substances, their use, or degradation into the environment. This includes impacts on public drinking water.
• Injury: This litigation can occur when parties suffer physical damage or loss from plastic pollution.
• Regulation violations: Companies that do not conform to the most current regulatory burdens are exposed to litigation risks. Regulatory agencies are constantly looking for businesses that are unresponsive to these laws.

How Can the Risk of Litigation Be Reduced?

Company representatives can mitigate their liability risks by becoming familiar with federal, state, and local regulations that apply to their businesses. It is also important to keep environmental issues on the radar and ensure that the company’s insurance provisions are up to date.

These companies can also prioritize the recycling and reuse of their products through plans for structured environmental reporting that zero in on issues. Some plastics companies are targeted for litigation, focusing on misleading behaviors related to their sustainability claims. So, the scale of potential exposures should be honestly disclosed and addressed if needed.

Contact a Wilmington Environmental Lawyer at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. for Trusted Legal Guidance

Attempting to address environmental law concerns without an experienced lawyer is ill-advised, especially when so much is at stake. Our Wilmington environmental lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. can explain your legal options and fight to protect your rights. To learn more about your potential case, complete our online form or call us at 302-656-5445 today. We are located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, and we serve clients in Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.