Plastic Problem

Dear Editor:

Rockaway is surrounded by water – read: plastic.

This proven human health hazard is multiplying in our waterways, as well as in our air and landfills, and perhaps worst of all, our bodies. The production of plastic is projected to double nationwide in the next two decades.

We call on Assembly Member Stacey Pheffer Amato to support, co-sponsor and fight for a bill to cut the proliferation of single use plastic packaging in NY.

The Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act would reduce plastic packaging by 30% over 12 years, require at least 75% of remaining packaging to be reused or recycled by 2052, outlaw 17 harmful chemicals and materials used in plastic packaging, and require large companies to pay fees on packaging, reducing local taxpayers’ burden.

Voters back this approach, with a recent Siena College poll showing 73% of New York voters support reducing product packaging. This bill – backed by over 300 groups statewide, is a strong step in the right direction.

Judith Enck
President, Beyond Plastics