Experts in the News

"Our consumerism drives demand in plastics," said energy fellow Rachel Meidl. "The widespread use of plastics is driven by our desire for convenient, portable, lightweight products."

Although on the surface electric vehicles have lower safety risks than cars with internal combustion engines, the introduction of lithium ion batteries into the equation presents new hazards, wrote fellow Rachel Meidl.

As the world acclimates to coexistence with the pandemic, "recycling is making a comeback,” said energy fellow Rachel Meidl. “Lawmakers are picking up where they left off, and some municipalities are resuming curbside collections.”

“No matter how much government funding is allocated towards recycling efforts, there first needs to be a significant paradigm [shift] in human behavior,” said Rachel A. Meidl, fellow in energy and environment. “Where plastic is viewed as a resource, not a waste.” 

“The increase in residential waste volumes can be attributed to more individuals staying home and cleaning out their homes and the use and disposal of excess material obtained through panic purchasing,” said energy fellow Rachel Meidl.