With the onset of the Covid pandemic earlier this year, many of the fears around use of single-use plastic bags are funded by the fossil fuel industry. According to the Center for International Environmental Law, over 99% of plastic is made from chemicals sourced from fossil fuels. In fact, the fossil fuel and plastic industries are deeply connected. The shale gas boom in the United States is fueling a massive build-out of plastic infrastructure in the United States and beyond, See www.ciel.org. Sadly, just as the general public begins to realize the dangers of plastic pollution and take action to reduce it, industry is poised to invest billions in expanding plastic production.
Here in Mercer County, we want to encourage our residents to reduce the amount of plastics in their lives. So we will take the month of July to share tips and information with you so that you can make good choices to protect the environment. To start, you might try visiting PlasticFreeJuly.org and take the challenge, starting with their survey. Many of our Sustainable Lawrence members are participating in this world-wide event with millions of others. You can also check our social media this month for tips on how to reduce plastic in your lives and information on the state of plastics in the Garden State.
Top Tip: Reduce Plastic Waste When Buying Produce:
Buying plastic-wrapped or packaged fruits and vegetables creates plastic waste. Look for loose fruits and vegetables in your local grocery store, or head to a farmers market. Choose lightweight, reusable produce bags instead of the plastic bags that are usually provided. You can find a list of local farmers markets and community sponsored agricultural opportunities on the Mercer Sustainability Coalition webpage. What ways have you reduced your plastic waste when buying produce?
Please follow us on Facebook and share with us your ways you are going plastic free. We will be posting more tips and resources soon too.
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