Surfrider’s South Jersey Chapter is determined to curb plastic pollution from a source that has gotten little attention to date, despite growing public concern over the human and environmental health impacts from plastic in general.
The Chapter has helped passed two ordinances--one in the City of Egg Harbor and the other in Ventnor City--that would require construction sites to contain and remove particles and dust, including dust from cutting or drilling boards made of chemically treated lumber and composite plastic, such as brands like TREX and AZEK. There are currently no requirements to contain these pollutants, which quickly blow or drain into the local environment.
South Jersey Vice Chair, and long running Surfrider volunteer Bill Stuempfig, along with Sustainable Margate Chairman and core Surfrider volunteer, Steve Jasecki, have testified in person at both municipalities.
Under these new ordinances, contractors will 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.
The Chapter is working with a small coalition in New Jersey, including: Sherri Lilienfeld, a Sustainable Margate Board Member, 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 Margate, Longport, and Monmouth Beach.