Celebrating 15 Years of PPC & Finalizing the UN Plastics Treaty

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SEPTEMBER 2024

[attending Climate Week in NYC]([link removed])

Dear John,

I’m excited to be attending [Climate Week in NYC]([link removed]), where I’m joined by many Plastic Pollution Coalition members, partners, and allies (some pictured above). The energy is palpable as we meet to discuss the vital work we’re doing together!

As we engage in events and discussions about climate change, it is essential to acknowledge the connections between [climate and plastics]([link removed]). [99% of plastics are made from fossil fuels]([link removed]), and industry plans to triple plastic production by 2060—threatening our efforts to keep global temperatures below the critical 1.5-degree threshold. We simply cannot allow this to happen.

Groundbreaking news out of California this month—two separate lawsuits have been filed against fossil fuel giant [ExxonMobil for lying to the public]([link removed]) about the “recyclability” of plastics. Governor Gavin Newsom also [signed Senate Bill 1053]([link removed]), closing the loophole and banning all plastic bags offered at checkout, including "heavy-duty" plastic bags; the new law is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

In an effort to directly prevent plastic pollution and support communities, we’re currently [accepting applications]([link removed]) for our [Filtered Not Bottled Grant Program]([link removed]). This program provides direct financial support to organizations and groups working with frontline communities impacted by lead pipes. These grants will help expand education on the health risks of lead and plastic, as well as advocacy efforts to distribute point-of-use filters as a safe, accessible drinking water solution.

We’re celebrating an exciting milestone next month: it’s Plastic Pollution Coalition’s 15th Anniversary on October 24! This is a moment to reflect on our incredible journey and all that we’ve accomplished together over the past 15 years—including shifting culture and the narrative to recognize plastic pollution and to embrace and invest in non-toxic plastic-free solutions. We are truly grateful for your support along the way. There is much yet to be done, and we look forward to continuing to work with our amazing network of businesses, organizations, and individuals to create the systemic change we need.

Onward together,

[Julia Cohen]

Julia Cohen, MPH
Co-Founder & Managing Director
Plastic Pollution Coalition

P.S. Please [support our work]([link removed]) to educate, connect, and advocate for a more just, equitable world free of plastic pollution.

RECENT HIGHLIGHTS

[California Governor Signs Legislation Banning Plastic Bags]([link removed])

★ [California Governor Signs Legislation Banning Plastic Bags]([link removed])
On September 22, 2024, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 1053, closing [the loophole]([link removed]) and banning all plastic bags offered at checkout, including “heavy-duty” plastic bags. The new law is set to take effect on January 1, 2026. [Learn more]([link removed]).

★ [ExxonMobil Faces Two Lawsuits for Plastics “Recycling” Deception]([link removed])
Two separate lawsuits were filed on September 23, 2024, to hold ExxonMobil accountable for its contributions to the plastic pollution crisis—both related to the company misleading consumers about plastics “recycling.” California’s lawsuit is the first attempt by a U.S. government official to hold a fossil fuel company accountable for misleading claims about plastics. [Learn more]([link removed]).

★ [Plastics & Climate Change are Connected]([link removed])
Plastic pollution and climate change are two of our planet's biggest environmental challenges. Many people don’t realize that the two issues are closely linked. 99% of plastics are made from fossil fuels, and their production is an energy-intensive process. From oil and gas extraction to refining and manufacturing, every step of the production process releases greenhouse gases (GHG). [Learn more]([link removed]) in this guest blog by Lars Jansen, co-owner of [SWOP – Shop Without Plastic]([link removed]), a Plastic Pollution Coalition (PPC) Business Member.

★ [Fracked Gas is Now a Growing Share of the Fossil Fuels Being Turned Into Plastics]([link removed])
The fracking boom, primarily driven by the increasing production of plastics, is a growing concern for the health of people and the planet. In the U.S., more than 17.6 million people live within a mile of a fracking well, and around six million live within three miles of a refinery. [Learn more]([link removed]).

★ [Coca-Cola Must Face Greenwashing Lawsuit in D.C.]([link removed])
The D.C. appeals court holds that environmental nonprofit Earth Island Institute can challenge Coca-Cola’s sustainability claims. The D.C. appeals court issued a [decision]([link removed]) finding that Earth Island Institute sufficiently pleaded that Coca-Cola’s environmental and sustainability claims are in violation of the D.C. Consumer Protection Procedures Act (CPPA). [Learn more]([link removed]).

➤ Find more [Latest News on our website]([link removed]).

COALITION CORNER

[ Arms of Andes: Natural Fiber Solutions to Prevent Microplastic Pollution in Fast Fashion]([link removed])

★ [Arms of Andes]([link removed]): Natural Fiber Solutions to Prevent Microplastic Pollution in Fast FashionThis month we worked with PPC Business Member [Arms of Andes]([link removed]) to shed light on the pervasiveness of petrochemical-based clothing and uplift natural fiber solutions. Wool fibers are a great example of a regenerative material that doesn’t pollute the planet. Wool is nontoxic, odor-resistant, antibacterial, and a great alternative to synthetic athletic wear, as wool doesn’t shed microplastics. Check out our PPC social media channels to learn more.

★ [The Spinster Sisters]([link removed]): Solid Personal Care Products to Prevent Plastic PollutionIn the U.S. alone, almost 7.9 billion units of rigid plastic are created just for beauty and personal care products—most of which are landfilled. Products in solid formats, as opposed to liquid, have been around for millennia and don’t require big plastic bottles. PPC Business Member [The Spinster Sisters]([link removed]) provides personal care products in solid formats—like soap, shampoo, conditioners—which are better for you and better for our planet. Look for our collaboration with actress
and PPC notable Amy Aquino on our social media channels to learn more.

★ [Join the Coalition]([link removed])
Not yet a member of Plastic Pollution Coalition? You may join as an individual, organization, or business. [Apply here]([link removed]).

UPCOMING EVENTS

[PPC October Webinar: Plastic-Free President: The Future of U.S. Policy on Plastics]([link removed])

★ [PPC October Webinar: Plastic-Free President: The Future of U.S. Policy on Plastics]([link removed])
The next U.S. President will take office in January 2025, and the policies they implement over the next four years could help stop plastic pollution—or allow this urgent global crisis to worsen. So what role should the U.S. President and the federal government play in eliminating plastic pollution? Join us on October 23, 2024, for a discussion with key allies and policy experts about recommendations and priorities for the next U.S. Administration to protect people and the planet. These actions will be critical not only for the U.S. but for the world—since the U.S. is the world’s top plastic polluting country. We will be joined by Judith Enck, President, [Beyond
Plastics]([link removed]); Jenny Hernandez, Climate Justice Framework Program Manager, [Green Latinos]([link removed]); and Alexa White PhD, Climate and Environmental Justice Policy Director, [Hip Hop Caucus]([link removed]). This webinar will be moderated by Amy Westervelt, Executive Editor, [Drilled]([link removed]). [Register here]([link removed]).

★ [Beyond Plastics Webinar: Proposed Priorities for the Next U.S. President to Reduce Plastic Pollution]([link removed])
Beyond Plastics has released a list of 27 priority policy recommendations for the next U.S. president to reduce plastic pollution. These recommendations pave the way to address the plastic pollution crisis by significantly reducing the production of plastics. Join a free webinar on Oct. 1 at 7:00pm ET to learn how the next president can tackle plastic pollution. [Learn more]([link removed]).

★ [Climate Week NYC, Sept. 22–29]([link removed])
Climate Week NYC takes place Sept. 22–29 and is a platform for over 600 events across New York City, set up by people and organizations that want to move the needle on climate. It’s the largest annual climate event of its kind, with leaders from the world of business, tech, politics, academia, and civil society. PPC staff are on the ground at Climate Week helping to make the connection between climate and plastics. Find live events and register for livestream sessions [here]([link removed]).

★ [Art exhibition by Álvaro Soler-Arpa: Especies Mensajeras (“Messenger Species”)]([link removed])
Through his sculptures, PPC Artist Ally Álvaro Soler-Arpa invites us to reflect on the devastating impact of pollution on the natural world and the urgent need to take measures to protect biodiversity. The exhibition is open Oct. 9, 2024–Jan. 26, 2025 at Círculo De Bellas Artes–Sala Goya (Goya Room) Calle Alcalá, 42. in Madrid, Spain. [Learn more]([link removed]).

➤ Find more [Events on our website]([link removed]).

TAKE ACTION

[Tell Starbucks: Build a Better (Reusable) Cup Campaign]([link removed])

★ [Tell Starbucks: Build a Better (Reusable) Cup Campaign]([link removed])
Tell Starbucks Chairman & CEO Brian Niccol to promote and increase incentives and discounts for reusable cups. Starbucks uses more than 8,000 plastic cups and plastic-lined paper cups per minute, and up to 6 billion disposable cups and mugs worldwide each year. Most of this ends up in landfills, the environment, or is incinerated. [Sign the petition]([link removed]).

★ [Tell World Leaders to Take a Strong Stance on the Global Plastics Treaty]([link removed])
The UN Global Plastics Treaty negotiations are now underway. Urge world leaders to lead by forging ambitious solutions—like reduction of plastic production and freedom from corporate influence—instead of leading the world in generating plastic pollution. [Sign the petition to the U.S. Government]([link removed]). Outside the U.S? Sign the [petition to world leaders]([link removed]).

★ [Add Your Face to the #WeAreWatching Eye]([link removed])
For the final scheduled UN Plastics Treaty negotiating session, INC-5, Greenpeace is assembling a monumental flag that shows an eye made up of thousands of portraits from around the world. It will fly above Busan, Korea, during INC-5 in late November, to hold leaders accountable as they decide the future of our planet. Add your photo to #WeAreWatching to show world leaders that your eyes are on Busan. [Add your photo]([link removed]).

➤ Find more [Ways to Take Action]([link removed])

OPPORTUNITIES & RESOURCES

[Plastic Pollution Coalition Launches 100K Filtered Not Bottled Grant Program]([link removed])

★ [Plastic Pollution Coalition Launches 100K Filtered Not Bottled Grant Program]([link removed])
PPC has launched a grant program to distribute a total of $100K to support communities impacted by toxic lead service lines in the U.S. These grants will help expand education on the health risks of lead and plastic while bolstering advocacy efforts for the distribution of point-of-use filters as a safe, accessible drinking water solution. [Learn more]([link removed]).

★[Twenty Years of Microplastics Pollution Research—What Have We Learned?]([link removed])
[Microplastics are pervasive]([link removed]) and have been identified in the water we drink, the air we breathe, and the food we eat. Microplastics have recently been found in various human tissues and organs, [including the heart]([link removed]) and [testicles]([link removed]). So what exactly have scientists uncovered after 20 years of microplastics research? Read the [latest report from Science.org]([link removed]), co-authored by our [September PPC
webinar]([link removed]) panelist Richard Thompson. [Grist also covered this research]([link removed]).

★ [Marine Pollution: What Everyone Needs to Know]([link removed]), 2nd edition by Judith WeisThis book discusses the sources of marine pollutants, their effects on marine organisms and humans, and how to reduce or eliminate them. The updated 2nd edition reflects recent research and features a new chapter on microplastics. [Order online]([link removed]) and enter the code ASPROMP8 for a 30% discount.

★ [Opening for a Communications Campaigns Specialist at CIEL]([link removed])
The Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL) is seeking a [Communications Campaigns Specialist]([link removed]). The candidate should be able to nimbly respond to the wide variety of communications needs that arise from campaigns, whether it’s creating social media content, working with the Media Specialist to pitch reporters, or helping support the development of campaign strategy. [Learn more]([link removed]).

★ [Screen Cafeteria Culture’s Film “Microplastic Madness" at Your School]([link removed])
Inspire your students to take plastic-free action with Cafeteria Culture’s award-winning, student-led movie, “Microplastic Madness.” This uplifting and informative real-life story shows how students started the first Plastic Free Lunch Day. It is sure to spark a lively discussion. [Learn more]([link removed]).

➤ Find more Resources in our [Resource Library.]([link removed])

Your donation makes a difference.
[Donate]([link removed])

#plasticpollutes

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Plastic Pollution Coalition is a non-profit communications and advocacy organization that collaborates with an expansive global alliance of organizations, businesses, and individuals to create a more just, equitable, regenerative world free of plastic pollution and its toxic impacts. Plastic Pollution Coalition is a project of Earth Island Institute, a 501(c)3, non-profit organization, organized and existing under the laws of California (Federal Tax ID #94-2889684).

Plastic Pollution Coalition
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Washington, DC 20008
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(323) 936-3010

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