Photographer Bryan Anselm has documented the pervasive issue of plastic waste in New York City, highlighting the visible impact of discarded plastics on urban landscapes. Despite efforts like curbside recycling and community cleanups, a significant amount of plastic waste remains unaddressed, contributing to environmental pollution and health risks, particularly in low-income areas.
The production of plastic has surged dramatically, with the U.S. seeing a 263% increase in per capita plastic waste from 1980 to 2018. Public awareness is rising, as nearly 90% of Americans express concern about microplastics, indicating a growing demand for effective solutions to mitigate plastic pollution and its associated health impacts.