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12.01.22

Booker, Huffman, Merkley, Lowenthal Introduce Legislation to Address Plastic Production Crisis

Congressional leaders today announced the Protecting Communities from Plastics Act, legislation designed to stop plastic pollution, reduce climate change and halt the harm plastic production is causing communities adjacent to petrochemical, plastic production and waste incineration facilities.

Introduced by U.S. Senator Cory Booker (N.J.) and Representative Jared Huffman (CA-2), along with U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (OR) and Representative Alan Lowenthal (CA-47), the Protecting Communities from Plastics Act aims to curb America's overreliance on single-use plastics by establishing stricter rules for petrochemical plants to safeguard human health, by reducing the plastic production greenhouse gas emissions fueling the climate crisis, and by creating new nationwide targets for plastic source reduction and reuse in the packaging and food service sectors. 

The Protection Communities from Plastics Act rejects industry's attempts to push “advanced” or “chemical” recycling as a solution to plastic pollution. From polluting our air and water to extending dependence on fossil fuels, plastic production is toxic at every stage. This bill provides a much-needed course correction toward the safer, healthier and more sustainable future we all deserve. We look forward to supporting this important, promising legislation!

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