This is a past event.

Facilitated Discussion

Held 3rd Thursdays each month, January - May 2021, 7-8 p.m.

A Plastic Ocean (90 min.)

In the center of the Pacific Ocean, gyre researchers found more plastic than plankton. This film documents the newest science, proving how plastics, once they enter the oceans, break up into small particulates that enter the food chain where they attract toxins like a magnet. These toxins are stored in seafood’s fatty tissues, and eventually consumed by us. The film is an important documentary that we encourage all people to experience in order to learn about why the issue of plastic pollution is so important. View education guide and resources. (2016)

REGISTER to be emailed information regarding viewing each month's film, along with a Zoom link for the facilitated discussion.

Discussion Facilitator

Dr. David Shonnard

Richard and Bonnie Robbins Chair in Sustainable Materials
Department of Chemical Engineering
Michigan Technological University.

Shonnard teaches Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a method that allows for a comprehensive assessment of environmental impacts for a product or process. The scope of the assessment is over the entire life cycle; starting with the extraction of raw materials from the environment manufacturing transportation use in society, recycle, reuse, and final treatment or disposal in the environment. His research interests include Bioprocess engineering, Alternative energy/Biofuels, and Sustainability.

About

The Sustainability Film Series is a virtual ZOOM facilitated discussion for Michigan Tech faculty, staff, students, and alumni, as well as community members.

Participants Must Register

The films will be viewed BEFORE the facilitated discussion. Each film has a different procedure for viewing, so it's important to register to receive instructions for viewing each month's film. You can register for all films and all discussions at once.

Free or Donation

$5 suggested donation per film is appreciated. Make a donation online and put "Sustainability Film Series" in the comment box. 

Cosponsored by

Lake Superior Stewardship Initiative, Michigan Tech Great Lakes Research Center, Keweenaw Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, Keweenaw Land Trust, Michigan Tech Department of Social Sciences, Michigan Tech Sustainable Futures Institute, and Michigan Tech College of Forest Resources and Environmental Science.

Coordinated by the Michigan Tech Center for Science and Environmental Outreach.

2021 Sustainability Film Series Schedule