(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) stopped by the Museum of Science and Industry’s “Blue Paradox” exhibit on Wednesday to highlight the importance of reducing plastic pollution in Illinois waterways.
The exhibit takes visitors on a journey below the ocean's surface to explore the effects of plastic pollution. Durbin said education is the first step at reducing plastic production.
“This exhibit puts into perspective the challenge that everyone faces, not just members of Congress, when it comes to the future of water and waterways, not only in the United States but around the world,” the senator said.
Following a tour of the exhibit, Durbin discussed the Plastic Pellet Free Waters Act, which he introduced last month. He said it would ban companies from dumping plastic pellets into waterways.
“This is an important step to addressing the plastic problem plaguing the Great Lakes,” said Durbin. “But it's not completely answered by any means.”
Plastic pellets, he added, are one of the largest direct sources of pollution to the oceans.
“Reducing plastic production starts with educating all of us, myself included, my family, and the families living in this area,” he said. “That's what this exhibit does. You cannot go through this exhibit without a massive impact on you personally in your lives.”
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