HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0482.300 2024-2026r
From: Tenn Dant
Sent: Tuesday, December 2, 2025 11:03 AM �3
To: Council Testimony t;4
o
n
C-)
Subject: Testimony in Support of Bill 83, Draft 2 - Transition to Non -Toxic, Biodeg(adable?
Foodware i
t
NO
RE: Testimony in Support of Bill 83, Draft 2-Transition to Non -Toxic, Biodegradable Foodumre
Aloha Chair and Councilmembers, w-
I am writing to express my strong support for Bill 83, Draft 2, which would transition plastic foodware to
safer, non -toxic, biodegradable alternatives. This measure is both urgently needed and firmly aligned
with Hawaii County's responsibility to protect our environment, our communities, and future
generations.
Here on the Big Island, we witness firsthand the growing crisis of plastic pollution. Our coastlines —from
Kona to Hilo to Ka'u—regularly accumulate microplastics, foam fragments, and single -use plastics that
wash ashore from both local use and global marine debris. According to studies conducted in Hawai'i,
the state is one of the world's hotspots for microplastic accumulation, with beach surveys showing tens
of thousands of plastic particles per meter in some locations. These plastics do not disappear; they
break into smaller pieces that enter marine ecosystems, absorb toxins, and move up the food chain.
This pollution is not only an environmental threat —it is a human health threat. Research has
documented microplastics and associated chemicals such as BPA, phthalates, and PFAS in seafood,
drinking water, and even in human blood and organs. Hawai'i residents, who rely heavily on local fish and
spend a great deal of time in and around our ocean, face elevated exposure risks. Plastic foodware is one
of the most common contributors to this waste stream. Switching to biodegradable and non -toxic
alternatives is one of the simplest, most direct steps we can take to reduce the volume of plastic
entering our communities and waterways.
Bill 83, Draft 2 is a practical and responsible policy. It supports businesses in transitioning to safer
materials, reduces long-term waste management costs, and aligns Hawai'i County with global efforts to
eliminate harmful plastics. Many food service providers are already making this shift voluntarily because
customers increasingly expect environmentally responsible options. This bill ensures consistency,
fairness, and meaningful progress across the island.
1 urge the Council to,pass Bill 83, Draft 2 and affirm our commitment to protecting the health of our'aina,
our ocean, and our people. Thankyou for your consideration and for your continued leadership in
environmental stewardship.
Mahalo nui,
Jenn Dant Comm.
Fair Wind Cruises Ref. To:
t Ref. Date
Boat department / Kitchen Operations Manager
78-6775 Makenawai St Box A
Kailua Kona, Hi 96740
o' rnincl
E malama ka `aina, E malama ka `aina is `oe
Take care of the land and the land will take care of you
mu- '04 Z