Below is a sample outline and a well-developed proposal argument essay in APA 7th ed. titled “From Waste to Sustainability: Transitioning to Reusable Containers in Cafeterias.” This sample is intended to help college students write better essays.
Proposal Argument Essay on Reusable Containers
Sample Proposal Argument Essay Outline on Reusable Containers
- Introduction:
- Hook: Capture the reader’s attention by highlighting the environmental impact of plastic waste and the importance of finding sustainable solutions i.e. “Picture this: you’re enjoying your lunch in a bustling cafeteria, but as you look around, you can’t help but notice the overflowing bins filled with disposable plastic cutlery and food containers. It’s time to take action and make a change.”
- Background/context: Provide an overview of the prevalence of single-use plastic items in cafeterias and its detrimental effects on the environment.
- Thesis statement: Argue that transitioning from single-use plastic items to reusable containers in cafeterias is the most viable and sustainable solution to reduce plastic waste, mitigate environmental harm, and promote long-term sustainability i.e. “Transitioning from single-use plastic items to reusable containers in cafeterias is the most viable and sustainable solution to reduce plastic waste, mitigate environmental harm, and promote long-term sustainability.”
- Body Paragraphs:
- Main Point 1 – Define the Problem and its Significance:
- Clearly define the problem of plastic waste generated by single-use items in cafeterias.
- Explain the significance of the problem, emphasizing its environmental consequences, such as pollution, harm to wildlife, and long-term ecosystem damage.
- Discuss the urgency of addressing the issue to promote a more sustainable future.
- Main Point 2 – Problem Analysis:
- Present evidence, data, and research studies that highlight the negative impacts of single-use plastic items in cafeterias.
- Discuss the lifecycle of plastic waste, including production, consumption, disposal, and its long-term environmental consequences.
- Explore case studies or real-life examples that demonstrate the severity of the problem and the need for immediate action.
- Main Point 3 – Discuss Alternative Solutions:
- Briefly outline and analyze alternative solutions that have been proposed or implemented to address plastic waste in cafeterias, such as recycling programs or biodegradable alternatives.
- Evaluate the effectiveness, limitations, and potential drawbacks of these alternatives.
- Highlight the need for a more comprehensive and sustainable solution that goes beyond recycling or short-term substitutes.
- Main Point 4 – Reusable Containers as the Best Choice:
- Present arguments explaining why transitioning to reusable containers in cafeterias is the most viable and sustainable solution.
- Discuss the benefits of reusable containers, such as significant waste reduction, environmental conservation, and cost-effectiveness in the long run.
- Refute counterarguments against reusable containers, addressing concerns related to hygiene, convenience, and initial costs.
- Main Point 5 – Feasibility and Implementation Plan:
- Provide a detailed feasibility and implementation plan for transitioning to reusable containers in cafeterias.
- Discuss the steps involved, including procurement, storage, cleaning protocols, and user education.
- Address potential challenges and provide solutions, such as training staff, collaborating with suppliers, or implementing gradual transitions.
- Conclusion:
- Recap the main points of the proposal, emphasizing the significance of transitioning from single-use plastic items to reusable containers.
- Emphasize the positive impact that this transition can have on reducing plastic waste and promoting long-term environmental sustainability.
- Call for action, urging cafeterias to embrace the transition to reusable containers as a practical and effective way to reduce plastic waste and promote long-term environmental stewardship.
Remember, when writing a proposal argument essay, the writer presents a problem or issue and proposes a solution or course of action to address that problem. The purpose of this essay is to convince the audience that the proposed solution is practical, effective, and necessary. The writer provides evidence, reasoning, and persuasive techniques to support their proposal and refute potential counterarguments.