Senate Co-Sponsorship Memoranda

This year, I am again introducing a resolution recognizing "Plastic Free July" in Pennsylvania. 

The proliferation of plastics, especially single-use plastics, in nearly every facet of our lives is a growing concern for environmental health and public health.  
 

According to the United Nations Environment Program, one million plastic bottles are purchased every minute, while up to five trillion plastic bags are used worldwide every year. In total, half of all plastic produced is designed for single-use purposes. Meanwhile, we know that plastic waste can take anywhere from 20 to 500 years to decompose. These momentary conveniences can last a lifetime! 
 

Unfortunately, the majority of our plastic waste ends up polluting our landfills, rivers, and oceans, putting the health and safety of humans and wildlife at risk. And we are learning more and more about the widespread, negative impacts of plastics, from greenhouse gas emissions produced during plastics manufacturing to the release of toxins in our air during plastic incineration to the alarming infiltration of microplastics in our food and water.
 

Over the last 5 years, global participants in Plastic Free July have collectively avoided 10 billion kilograms of waste, including 1.4 billion kilograms of plastic. The trend is strong and growing with more and more people supporting policies and making choices to reduce plastic waste. 
 
Lastly, I want to note that more than 30 communities across the Commonwealth have  passed laws eliminating one or more types of single-use plastics. In the 19th Senatorial District, which I am proud to represent, that includes West Chester Borough, West Goshen Township, Easttown Township, and Tredyffrin Township. 

 

Small changes can lead to daily habits that collectively make a big impact. Please join me in co-sponsoring this resolution designating July 2024 as “Plastic Free July” in Pennsylvania.