Speaker to explore link between plastic pollution and activism

The League of Women Voters, American Democracy Project and Chemistry Club will host a talk on plastic pollution and activism.

The program will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 29, noon to 1 p.m., in Williams Center Room S204 and includes lunch. It is free and open to the public.

Dr. Kim Cameron, who is president of the League of Women Voters of Cortland County and the featured speaker, will present “Plastic Pollution and the Road to Activism.” Dr. Cameron will explore the widespread problem of plastic pollution, its impact on ecosystems and human health, the steps communities can take to reduce plastic consumption and advocate for environmental change.

“Plastic pollution is a global crisis with local consequences,” said Department of Communication Associate Professor Angela McGowan-Kirsch, who serves as chair of the American Democracy Project at SUNY Fredonia. “This event invites students, faculty and community members to think critically about environmental sustainability and to see civic engagement as a vital tool for creating change.”

Cameron brings scientific expertise and environmental passion to her work. She holds a Ph.D. in Plant Physiology and has taught at SUNY Cortland and conducted research at Cornell University.

After completing course work with Judith Enck, founder of Beyond Plastics, through Bennington College in 2022, Cameron joined the Beyond Plastics Volunteer Speakers Bureau.

“As an environmentalist, parent and grandparent, I’m passionate about helping people understand not only the science behind plastic pollution but also the ways we can all be part of the solution,” Cameron said. “Small, informed actions can have a powerful collective impact.”

Mary Croxton of the League of Women Voters of Chautauqua County emphasized the importance of local engagement. “The league’s mission has always been about education and empowerment,” Croxton said. “By learning about the plastic crisis and how it connects to public policy, we strengthen our ability to make meaningful change right here in Chautauqua County.”