HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0482.038 2024-2026From: danhieux18
Sent: Sunday, September 14, 2025 12:51 PM
To: Council Testimony
Cc: Kimball, Heather, Kagiwada, Jennifer, Onishi, Dennis; Kierkiewicz, Ashley; Kan, ealiil�,
Kleinfelder, Matt; Galimba, Michelle M.; Villegas, Rebecca; Inaba, Holeka; tacEc3
James Gl� vicr
Subject: Testimony in Support of Bill 83'(with Amendment Request)
CD
Aloha Chair and the members of the Policy Committee on Environmental and Natural Resource Management T
My name is Bob Douglas, and I am testifying in strong support of Bill 83.1 also urge you to amend the bill toZi�clude a
ban on single -use plastics, such as plastic water bottles. Did you know that Ball manufacturers aluminum bottles up to 24
OZ.
Here are four key reasons why this amendment is critical:
Plastic pollution is a global threat: Experts call for at least a 75% reduction in plastic production and consumption
because it has been found in our blood & organs. Single -use plastics are unnecessary, harmful, and easily replaced with
safe alternatives.
Convenience does not outweigh survival: None of the single -use plastics covered in this ordinance are essential. They
represent only convenience, not necessity —and all have safer, sustainable substitutes.
Bans drive innovation: History shows that banning single -use plastics creates markets for alternatives and attracts
investments in safer, compostable, and regenerative products.
Composting and landfill relief: Expanding bans on single -use plastics works hand in hand with building local composting
capacity. It reduces landfill waste, extends landfill life, and strengthens Hawai'i's food security by producing soil
amendments locally.
Thank you,
Bob Douglas
Hilo, HI 96720
Comm. •"
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