Calling All New Yorkers: Email Your Representatives to Pass the Packaging Reduction & Recycling Act

What you need to know

New York's plastic pollution crisis is out of control, but there's a bill that can do something about it.

The New York State Senate passed the Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act last year, but ran out of time to pass it in the Assembly. The NY legislature is now back in session and we're running up against the deadline to pass this groundbreaking law. It's more essential than ever that lawmakers hear from constituents voicing their support during this final stretch.

The Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act (A.1749/S.1464) would require companies to:

• Reduce their packaging by 30% in 12 years.

• Make the remaining packaging truly reusable or recyclable.

• Get certain toxic chemicals out of packaging.

• Pay to clean up their packaging waste by reimbursing municipalities and taxpayers for the collection and processing of those materials.

• Prohibit incineration and "chemical recycling" from counting as recycling.

Why do we need this?

Nearly all packaging that cannot be reused or effectively recycled is made of plastic. New York City alone trashes 1,579,600 pounds of plastic bottles and jugs every week, and spends $425 million each year to export its waste to incinerators and landfills — which comes directly out of taxpayers’ pockets. 

Even worse, much of the waste finds its way to waterways, where it can choke wildlife, leach toxic chemicals, and threaten human health. Those who live in fenceline communities (where plastic is produced and/or processed) suffer from toxic pollution, which increases the risk of disease and lowers quality of life.

This is the most ambitious packaging reduction and extended producer responsibility (EPR) bill in the country. If New York passes it into law, it can help set a precedent for cities across the nation.

We must act now

This is a critical opportunity for New York to pass the Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act. We must take action today to remove toxic pollution from our communities and reduce the harms plastic wreaks on our health. And if that's not enough, Beyond Plastics' new report estimates that it will also save New York taxpayers an estimated $1.3 billion over the next ten years!

It only takes a minute to email your state Assemblymember.

What happens next?

Your email will be shared with your state Assembly representative. They will have the option to respond to you directly. With the New York State legislative session ending on June 12, your email will help ensure the Legislature votes yes on this crucial bill.