Finding Common Ground on Conservation: A Call for Bipartisanship
In a recent op-ed piece for The Post and Courier, Wes Carter, President of Atlantic Packaging, sheds light on a hopeful paradox amidst the intense political divisions of our time. While citizens may be deeply divided on some issues, there is a significant consensus on others that have managed to escape partisan framing. One such unifying issue is conservation.
Wes Carter emphasizes that when the term “environment” is associated with climate change, it often leads to a divide between Democrats and Republicans. Democrats are seen as the party of climate action, while Republicans may default to an anti-environmental stance, even if they personally hold conservationist values. This political trap overlooks the fact that a vast majority of Americans are concerned about toxic chemicals, plastic pollution, and threats to drinking water. With over 175 million outdoor enthusiasts in the country, the issue of conservation resonates strongly across the political spectrum.
Historically, the Republican Party was the original champion of the environment. Prominent Republicans like Theodore Roosevelt and Richard Nixon played pivotal roles in the conservation movement and the establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency. Today, there is no “pro-litter” constituency; no one wants microplastics in their blood or forever chemicals in their food. This presents an opportunity for a new bipartisanship focused on policies that benefit both the environment and American business.
One such policy is the modernization of our country’s waste management system. Currently, the United States recycles only half of its aluminum, a third of its glass, and a mere 8% of its plastic. This inefficiency costs us billions of dollars annually and fails to meet the tremendous economic demand for clean, high-quality recycled materials. Advanced robotics and AI can revolutionize waste recovery facilities, while next-generation materials can reduce the waste stream at its source. With the right tax incentives and investments, American manufacturing ingenuity can be unleashed to create jobs, reduce dependence on virgin resources, and position the United States as a leader in the transition to a circular economy.
Wes Carter’s op-ed illustrates that a smarter approach to conservation aligns with core conservative values such as stewardship, efficiency, and economic opportunity. By recognizing that waste is detrimental to business, health, and the environment, both parties can work together to implement pragmatic solutions with broad public support. This cooperation can set a precedent for addressing other pressing environmental and health challenges, rekindling bipartisanship in service to public health, the environment, and American business.
At Atlantic Packaging, we are committed to supporting sustainability and conservation in all our areas of influence. As a major provider of sustainable packaging solutions, we understand the critical role of protecting our environment for future generations. We invite you to join us in this important conversation and work together towards a sustainable future.