AGENDA ITEM REPORT
TITLE:
title
A RESOLUTION AFFIRMING THE CITY'S INTENTION TO REDUCE USAGE OF SINGLE-USE PLASTIC ITEMS IN ITS OPERATIONS; AFFIRMING THE CITY'S COMMITMENT TO PROVIDE PUBLIC OUTREACH EFFORTS RELATING TO THE EFFECT OF PLASTIC IN THE ENVIRONMENT AND THE REDUCTION OF SINGLE-USE PLASTIC ITEMS; AND ENCOURAGING BUSINESSES AND RESTAURANTS WITHIN THE CITY TO REDUCE THE USE OF SINGLE-USE PLASTIC ITEMS SUCH AS STRAWS, RETAIL BAGS, AND POLYSTYRENE FOAM CONTAINERS.
body
BACKGROUND:
Studies have shown that nonrecyclable or nonbiodegradable plastics, including single-use plastic straws and the like, pose an environmental hazard to our health, safety, and welfare by negatively impacting water quality and surrounding wildlife. Recognized by Audubon International for its Sustainable Communities Programs and recipient of the "Tree City USA" award for over 30 years, the City of Coconut Creek has consistently proven itself a leader in the realm of environmental sustainability and conscientiousness, and seeks to continuously improve its efforts to reduce the prevalence of single-use plastics. The City seeks to educate others on this topic and incentivize businesses and restaurants within the City to reduce their use of single-use plastics and promote environmentally sustainable practices. In addition, the following items are proposed to reduce usage of single-use plastic items in the City's operations:
1. Establish a Green Events Checklist;
2. Install more water bottle refilling stations throughout the City; and
3. Purchase and brand green merchandise with the City's logo.
DISCUSSION:
The City plans to require reusable materials at City-sponsored events and improve management of waste and interception of the litter on City properties by setting up the appropriate garbage and recycling receptacles. The City will further encourage its advisory boards, such as the Environmental Advisory Board and Community Outreach Advisory Board, to research existing and emerging issu...
Click here for full text