HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0482.355 2024-2026From: Jeanne I Wheeler
Sent: Tuesday, December 2, 2025 6:23 AM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Please: Support Bill 83, Draft 2
Aloha Chair and members of our County Council,
I'm writing to ask that you please support Bill 83, Draft 2, and its amendments. This is a big step forward for our Big
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. Let's stop it now!
We now have readily available, affordable, convenient 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.
To pass Bill 83 will mean supporting the health of our reefs, our communities, and future generations. Let's do it...!
Mahalo for taking this critical step forward.
Jeanne Wheeler- Pahoa/96778 j
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