Plastic waste litters cities, oceans and even the air. Largely overlooked is how making plastic affects the environment. Plastic is a big contributor to global warming. So are its alternatives.

An elaborate Lego kit with pieces divided into many small plastic packets. [Photo: Flickr user Steve Jurvetson] “We want to ensure recycling our bags is as easy as possible for builders,” says ...

Coca-Cola Co.'s recent announcement that it will start producing the soft drink Sprite in clear instead of green bottles will make recycling easier. But climate groups say it's not enough.