HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0482.338 2024-2026From: Koohan Paik-Mander
Sent: Tuesday, December 2, 2025 7:56 AM
To: Council Testimony
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Subject: Support Bill 83, Draft 2
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Aloha Chair and members of our County Council,
I am writing to strongly urge you to support Bill 83, Draft 2, and its amendments. This is a huge §Tep
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forward for Hawaii Island.
Plastic pollution is one of the greatest threats to our island's ecosystems and to our health for
generations to come. 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, PLA 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.
Supporting Bill 83 means supporting the health of our reefs, our communities, and future generations.
Mahalo for takingthis critical step forward.
Thankyou!
Koohan Paik-Mander
Honokaa, HI 96727
Comm. o • 1�
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Ref. Date � 3 U.