HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0482.340 2024-2026From: Beverly Rafferty
Sent: Tuesday, December 2, 2025 11:04 AM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Support Bill 83, Draft 2
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 step forward for Hawai'i 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 leadingthe way.
These products reduce waste, break down naturally, and lighten the burden on our overstressed waste
management system. Supporting Bill 83 means supportingthe health of our reefs, our communities, and
future generations. Mahalo for takingthis critical step forward. Thankyoul
Bev Rafferty
Comm. O 1
Ref. To:
Ref. Date - 3 ?I195