HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0482.092 2024-2026From:
Sherri Thal
Sent:
Sunday, September 14, 2025 2:46 PM
To:
Council Testimony
Cc:
Kimball, Heather, Kagiwada, Jennifer; Onishi, Dennis; Kierkiewicz, Ashley; Kanealii-
Kleinfelder, Matt; Galimba, Michelle M.; Villegas, Rebecca; Inaba, Holeka; Hustace,
James
Subject:
Testimony in Support of Bill 83 (with Amendment Request)
Aloha Chair and the members of the Policy Committee on Environmental and Natural Resource Management:
My name is Sherri Thal, and I am testifying in strong support of Bill 83. 1 also urge you to amend the bill to include a ban on single -use
plastics, such as plastic water bottles.
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. We could create new jobs here on Hawaii Island by implementing a glass bottle and container
sterilization and reuse plant for our locally made goods that are still being sold in plastic containersl
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 HawaiTs food security by producing soil amendments locally. Banning
single -use plastics is paramount to our human survival! We will be poisoned by and/or drown in our own plastic waste unless we take
action nowl
Thank you for yourtime and consideration in supporting Bill 83. �o
Cc'
Aloha, CD
Sherri Thal ro
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Ref. To:
Ref. Date P W25