What Kind of Plastic Packaging Superhero Would AI Create?

Everyone seems to have a bias whether the topic is politics, police, or plastics. Fair enough, every individual is entitled to their opinion.

However, what’s troubling is that reports indicate that artificial intelligence can be biased, which raises a slew of concerns.

What bias, if any, would artificial intelligence have for the topic of plastic packaging? Which is why we asked the ChatGPT AI platform to “create a superhero persona for plastic packaging.”  What kind of superhero would it come up with?

Meet EcoGuardian alias Plasticia, complete with backstory, superpowers, and custom gadgets.

This an auspicious start starting with the clever name, though it also happens to be the one-word name for the Eco Guardian line of paper and compostable cups, trays, and other packaging. It appears to be a pro-plastic character, though my input term “superhero” may have pointed the project in a positive direction from the start. You’ve already noticed that my comments appear in italics.

EcoGuardian’s origin story, courtesy of ChatGPT: Plasticia was once a regular piece of plastic packaging, discarded carelessly by its previous owner. However, instead of ending up in a landfill or polluting the environment, it found its way into a top-secret recycling facility. There, through a fortunate combination of advanced technology and a mysterious energy source, Plasticia gained consciousness and superpowers. Empowered by its newfound awareness and a deep sense of responsibility, Plasticia dedicated itself to protecting the environment and combating the global plastic pollution crisis. 

This is an exciting, creative, and promising premise. This abstract could be a springboard to anything from a commercial promoted by a plastics industry trade association to the pitch for animated series for kids.

EcoGuardian’s mission and values. 

EcoGuardian's primary mission is to combat plastic pollution and promote sustainable practices worldwide. Plasticia strives to raise awareness about the environmental impact of plastic waste, inspire behavioral change, and advocate for policies that promote recycling, waste reduction, and eco-friendly alternatives. The superhero actively engages with communities, educates the public, and collaborates with environmental organizations to develop innovative solutions to the plastic crisis. 

With an unwavering determination, EcoGuardian, also known as Plasticia, fights tirelessly to safeguard the planet from the harmful effects of plastic pollution, reminding humanity that even the smallest piece of plastic can become a powerful force for positive change.

EcoGuardian is a proactive, networking force from grassroots to around the world. Collaboration is an awesome power in both the virtual and real worlds.

EcoGuardian’s four major superpowers.

Plastic Manipulation: Plasticia possesses the extraordinary ability to manipulate and control all forms of plastic. It can mold, reshape, and reconfigure plastic objects at will, enabling it to repair damaged items, repurpose waste materials, and create ingenious tools and gadgets. 

Several of the above are a plastics superpower in the real world.

Elasticity: Plasticia's body has transformed into a highly elastic and resilient form, allowing it to stretch, bend, and contort in extraordinary ways. It can stretch its limbs to reach great distances, squeeze through tight spaces, and withstand extreme forces without breaking. 

This power has been done a dozen times before, for example, Plastic Man, but nonetheless is an excellent on-topic ability.

Camouflage: Plasticia can alter its appearance to blend seamlessly into its surroundings, mimicking the colors, textures, and patterns of different types of plastic. This ability makes it an expert at stealth operations, enabling it to infiltrate polluting facilities unnoticed and gather crucial information.

ChatGPT apparently sensed the need for covert operations to root out polluting evildoers that operate outside the law.

Environmental Empathy: Plasticia possesses a unique connection to the natural world. It can sense the presence of pollution, plastic waste, and environmental damage with heightened sensitivity. This empathic connection guides its actions and helps it locate and address areas of concern quickly.

Empathy is an essential attribute for any superhero or human for that matter.

EcoGuardian’s three tools of the superhero trade.

Most superheroes need at least one iconic piece of equipment, and EcoGuardian is no exception, possessing a trio of terrific options. Each reinvents a familiar superhero's gadget in a plastic-waste fighting way.

Recycler Gauntlets: Plasticia wears specially designed gauntlets that enhance its plastic manipulation abilities. These gauntlets can absorb plastic waste, break it down into recyclable components, and convert them into useful items on the spot. 

Biodegradable Utility Belt: Plasticia carries a utility belt filled with biodegradable capsules containing environmentally friendly gadgets. These gadgets range from eco-friendly adhesives and sealants to miniature recycling devices, enabling Plasticia to solve plastic-related challenges on the go. 

Reusable Shield: Plasticia wields a sturdy shield made from recycled and reinforced plastic. This shield not only offers formidable protection but also symbolizes the superhero's commitment to sustainability and circular economy principles. 

EcoGuardian summary and wrap-up.

This is the kind of superhero the world needs to help right the wrongs of the status quo in plastics.

EcoGuardian is also an exaggerated personification of what’s happening globally to make plastics less damaging to the environment. Plastic and packaging stakeholders continue to improve existing options and create new ones through emerging tactics, strategies, and technologies, most of which center on circularity. It's the theme of most content posted at PlasticsToday. We all have a role in fighting plastic waste starting with the 3R’s of Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. And remember, never ever litter!