Environmental crisis and international trade: analysis of the socio-ecological impacts of plastic imports in Ecuador
Keywords:
Pollution, plastic waste, environmental rights, sustainability, ecological justiceAbstract
The importation of plastics into Ecuador, within the framework of global trade, has exacerbated local environmental challenges, revealing a contradiction between economic growth and ecological sustainability. This practice, often overlooked in official narratives, contributes to the accumulation of non-biodegradable waste, the overload of landfills, and the pollution of terrestrial and marine ecosystems. Beyond environmental degradation, it violates the constitutional right of the population to live in a healthy and balanced environment. Inadequate regulatory frameworks and the absence of circular economy policies further aggravate the situation. Rethinking consumption and import models is urgent, prioritizing sustainable strategies that reduce plastic dependency and promote ecological alternatives. In this context, environmental justice requires alignment between international trade, environmental protection, and human rights.
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