HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0482.302 2024-2026From:
Amber Datta
Sent: Tuesday, December 2, 2025 8:53 AM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Support Bill 83, Draft 2
Aloha Chair and members of our County Council,
I am writing in strong support of
Bill 83, Draft 2, and its amendments. This is a huge and long overdue step forward for Hawai'i Island.
Every year, more than 11 million metric tons of plastic enter the ocean, breaking down into microplastics
that contaminate our air, water, and even human blood, tissues, and organs. Hawai'i's marine life —
turtles, seabirds, and fish —are ingesting plastics at alarming rates, and these toxins are entering our
food chain. We now have readily available, affordable, and environmentally responsible alternatives —
such as bagasse (sugarcane fiber), bamboo, paper -based compostables, PIA plant -based containers,
and fully biodegradable cutlery— already being used by many local small businesses who are leading
the way. These products reduce waste, break down naturally, and lighten the burden on our overstressed
waste management system. These materials are widely used already around the US and the world,
Hawai'i county is behind the curve and needs to take immediate action to catch up. We are surrounded
by beaches and ocean that will benefit from this simple step.
Supporting Bill 83 means supporting the health of our reefs, our communities, and future generations.
Mahalo for taking this critical step forward.
Mahalo,
Amber Datta
Captain Cook, HI 96704
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Ref. To:
Ref. Date — 3 2025