In academic and professional settings, you will often need to analyze information from multiple sources—such as articles, reports, and presentations—and then form your own reasoned opinion. The ITEP Academic-Plus exam tests this integrated skill by asking you to read a short passage, listen to a related lecture or conversation, and then speak or write about the topic. This lesson simulates that experience through a mock environmental policy forum. You will act as a participant, evaluating a proposal and different viewpoints before presenting your own stance. This will help you practice synthesizing information and communicating your ideas clearly and persuasively.
Plastic Pollution
Single-use plastics pose a significant threat to environments worldwide.
Reading Input: Policy Proposal
Your first task is to read the following policy proposal from the fictional City of Metropolis. As you read, take notes on the main goals, key actions, and potential effects of the proposal. Pay attention to the vocabulary used.
City of Metropolis – Proposed Bylaw No. 2025-P4: Single-Use Plastics Reduction
Preamble: Whereas the accumulation of single-use plastic waste has a detrimental impact on our city's ecosystems, clogs our waterways, and poses a threat to wildlife; and whereas viable and more sustainable alternatives are increasingly available, the City of Metropolis proposes to mitigate plastic pollution through stringent new regulations.
Key Provisions:
- A complete ban on the distribution of single-use plastic shopping bags by all retail and service businesses.
- A ban on plastic straws and stir sticks, with accessible alternatives required for customers who need them.
- A mandatory fee of $0.25 on all single-use beverage cups to encourage the use of reusable containers.
Implementation: The policy will be implemented in phases. Phase 1 (Bags and Straws) will commence six months after the bylaw is passed. Phase 2 (Cup Fee) will begin one year after passing. This phased approach allows businesses time to adapt.
Potential Repercussions: The city acknowledges that this policy may have economic repercussions for small businesses. However, the long-term environmental benefits are believed to outweigh these short-term challenges. A public consultation period will be held to gather community feedback.
Listening Input: Stakeholder Opinions
Now, you will listen to two stakeholders offering their opinions on the proposed bylaw. Take notes on each speaker's main arguments and the reasons they provide.
Opinion 1: Proponent
Dr. Anya Sharma, Environmental Scientist
"As a proponent of this bylaw, I believe its implementation is imperative for the health of our city. The evidence is compelling: single-use plastics persist in our environment for hundreds of years, breaking down into microplastics that contaminate our soil and water. We've seen similar bans in other jurisdictions lead to a significant and immediate reduction in plastic waste. While some argue about economic costs, we must ask ourselves what the cost of inaction is. The long-term damage to our ecosystems and public infrastructure will be far greater than the short-term adjustments required by this policy. It is a decisive and necessary step toward a more sustainable future."
Opinion 2: Opponent
Mr. David Chen, Small Business Owner
"I am an opponent of this bylaw in its current form. While I agree we need to reduce waste, this proposal is not feasible for many small businesses like mine. The cost of biodegradable or paper alternatives is significantly higher, and that cost will disproportionately affect small retailers and our customers. This isn't just about bags; it’s about a sudden increase in operational costs that many of us cannot absorb. I would advocate for a more gradual transition, perhaps with subsidies from the city to help businesses purchase sustainable materials. To implement such a stringent policy without that support could force some businesses to close. We need a solution that is both green and economically viable, and I don't believe this proposal strikes that balance."
Synthesizing Information: Taking a Stance
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