Below is a sample outline and a well-developed problem-solution essay in APA 7th ed. on the topic: “Addressing Plastic Pollution in Oceans.” This sample is intended to help students write better essays.
Problem-Solution Essay: Addressing Plastic Pollution in Oceans
Essay Outline
- Introduction
- Hook: Begin with a striking fact or statistic related to plastic pollution in oceans.
- Background Information: Provide an overview of the growing problem of plastic pollution and its impact on marine ecosystems.
- Thesis Statement: Clearly state the problem and your proposed solutions to mitigate plastic pollution in oceans and protect marine life.
- Problem Description
- Problem Statement: Define the issue of plastic pollution in oceans, emphasizing its scale and environmental consequences.
- Causes of Plastic Pollution: Examine the primary sources and causes of plastic pollution, including plastic production, improper disposal, and ocean currents.
- Consequences: Detail the harmful effects of plastic pollution on marine life, including wildlife entanglement and ingestion, habitat destruction, and ecosystem disruption.
- Proposed Solutions
- Reduce Plastic Production and Consumption
- Solution 1: Advocate for policies that reduce plastic production, particularly single-use plastics.
- Supporting Details: Discuss the environmental impact of plastic production and the benefits of reducing plastic consumption.
- Benefits: Explain how this solution can decrease the amount of plastic waste entering oceans.
- Improve Recycling and Waste Management
- Solution 2: Propose initiatives to enhance recycling infrastructure and promote responsible waste management.
- Supporting Details: Highlight successful recycling programs and the importance of proper disposal practices.
- Benefits: Describe how improved recycling and waste management can reduce plastic leakage into oceans.
- Promote Public Awareness and Education
- Solution 3: Suggest campaigns and educational programs to raise public awareness about plastic pollution.
- Supporting Details: Explore the role of education in changing behavior and reducing plastic use.
- Benefits: Emphasize the long-term benefits of informed and environmentally conscious citizens.
- Best Solution
- Best Solution: Choose the most effective solution from the options presented in the previous section.
- Rationale: Explain why this solution is the most practical and impactful for addressing plastic pollution in oceans.
- Conclusion
- Restate the Problem: Summarize the key points about plastic pollution in oceans and its consequences.
- Restate the Solution: Recap the chosen solution and its potential to mitigate the problem.
- Call to Action: Encourage readers and stakeholders to take action, such as supporting policies and initiatives aimed at reducing plastic pollution.
- Closing Statement: End with a compelling statement that underscores the importance of safeguarding our oceans and marine ecosystems from the scourge of plastic pollution.
