Stop Construction Site Plastic Pollution in Galloway Township, NJ

Surfrider’s South Jersey Chapter is determined to curb plastic pollution from a source that has gotten little attention to date, despite the growing public concern over the human and environmental health impacts from plastic.

The Chapter is working to pass an Ordinance in Galloway Township, NJ that would require construction sites to contain and remove plastic particles and dust that is made when cutting or drilling boards made of chemically treated lumber and composite plastic, such as brands like TREX, AZEK. There are currently no requirements to contain these pollutants, which quickly blow or drain into the local environment. 

Contractors would be required to use vacuum attachments on saws, cut and drill lumber in confined spaces, such as a tent or hood, use tarps to collect dust, and properly dispose of these debris. 

Plastic dust exacerbates the plastic pollution crisis; plastic particles have been found in drinking water, food, human bodies, and in practically every inch of the globe. Plastic is a petroleum based product which degrades very slowly in the natural environment, contains toxins, and contributes to the climate crises. Plastic pollution poses significant health risks to humans, especially those in underserved communities where the majority of plastic manufacturing and waste management infrastructure is located. 

Long time Surfrider volunteer and Sustainable Margate Chairman, Steve Jasecki contacted the City to urge them to pass such an ordinance. The Chapter is also working a petition for similar ordinances statewide--sign our petition today!

Surfrider Mid-Atlantic Regional Manager CeCe Carter is organizing a small coalition to support these ordinances in New Jersey, including: Sustainable Margate Board Member Sherri Lilienfeld and Beyond Plastics affiliate (and Board Member) Brian Thompson, who is also an Environmental Commissioner in Monmouth Beach. This coalition has passed similar ordinances in Egg Harbor, Ventnor City, Margate, Longport, Atlantic City, and Monmouth Beach.