New initiative seeks to reduce single-use plastic items in the community

Members of the North Fork Environmental Council and North Fork Audubon Society met with local residents Jan. 31 to discuss the Plastic Reduction and Elimination Program – Long Island (PREP-LI), a new initiative to reduce single-use plastics in the community.

The newly formed group hopes to educate local residents, businesses and organizations on how to substitute products such as plastic silverware, takeout containers and plastic bags with reusable alternatives.

Members discussed working with county state and local legislators to ban styrofoam, plastic drinking straws, single-use plastic bags and balloon releases. The group also wants to reach out to local restaurant owners to discuss their use of plastic products and work to replace these items with sustainable items, such as bamboo silverware. Members also want to provide information to residents about recycling information in their towns and locations where environmentally-friendly products can be purchased.

Several residents discussed posting educational resources at local grocery stores and libraries explain the danger of plastic products to the environment and encourage the use of compostable or reusable items. The group is also looking into creating a “green use guide,” which will provide residents and visitors with information about local businesses and green-living tips and recommendations. The group also wants to reach out to local schools, churches and youth organizations to educate young people to reduce their plastic consumption.

“I think we’re at a tipping point. I think we are at a point where the general public is ready to embrace the idea of looking for alternatives to plastics” said Debbie O’Kane, North Fork Environmental Program director.

The group will meet again Thursday, Feb. 28, at 6:30 p.m. at the Jamesport Meeting House. Those interested in learning more about the project can contact Ms. O’Kane at office@nfec1.org.