WASHINGTON (May 29, 2019) – Today, the American Chemistry Council issued the following statement urging Governor Phil Scott (R-VT) to veto S.113 that bans single-use plastics, including polystyrene packaging products (this statement is attributable to Adam S. Peer, Senior Director, Packaging, Plastics Division):
“ACC is committed to helping end plastic waste in the environment. In fact, many of our members helped found the Alliance to End Plastic Waste, which aims to invest over $1.5 billion to deliver waste management solutions where they are needed most. Experts say up to 60 percent of marine plastic comes from just five countries. And while the U.S. accounts for less than 1 percent of litter in the ocean, ACC is committed to working with communities so that 100 percent of plastic packaging is reused, recycled or recovered.
“However, a ban on single-use plastic products is not the answer. These products provide business owners and consumers a cost-effective and environmentally preferable choice that is ideal for protecting food and preventing food waste. A ban on single-use packaging and foodservice containers, including polystyrene foam containers, may lead to increased solid waste, energy use, water use, and greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, banning plastic bags may negatively impact programs that recycle plastic films, such as dry-cleaning bags and bread bags. These programs help increase awareness on the recyclability of plastic films, which has increased dramatically since the program’s start.
“While we appreciate that the bill aligns with our position to provide straws upon request, the remaining provisions require us to strongly oppose this legislation. We urge Governor Scott to veto S. 113 and work with stakeholders on policies to eliminate plastic waste in the environment while ensuring the availability of products with the lowest overall environmental footprint.”