The Middletown Township Board of Supervisors will consider the potential adoption of a single-use plastics ordinance, a move that aligns with the township’s ongoing sustainability initiatives.
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The discussion, prompted by the Environmental Advisory Council during Monday evening’s supervisor’s meeting, underscores the growing concern over plastic waste and its environmental impact.
Kevin Deeny, a member of the Environmental Advisory Council, emphasized the council’s dedication to sustainability and suggested the supervisors contemplate a single-use plastic ban.
While speaking, Deeny highlighted the necessity of community input, stating, “businesses and residents would have to weigh in.” He underscored the importance of considering the implications of any proposed ordinance.
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The initiative comes in the wake of neighboring Newtown Borough and Newtown Township adopting similar bans, with Newtown Township’s ordinance taking effect this week.
Plastic bags are among the most common items found littered in the township, pointing out that approximately 13 million plastic bags are used annually within the township alone, Deeny noted, citing a recent calculation.
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Addressing the environmental hazards posed by single-use plastics, Deeny remarked on the material’s petroleum basis, its omnipresence in outdoor spaces, and its detrimental effects on animals. He said plastics are being found in people’s blood and women’s breast milk.
The topic is “front of mind,” according to Supervisors Chairperson Mike Ksiazek, who acknowledged the need for further dialogue on the matter.
“We do need to have further discussion on the topic, and we acknowledge that some of our neighboring municipalities have passed similar ordinances,” Ksiazek said.
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The supervisors chair voiced concerns regarding the potential impact of a ban on local businesses.
Deeny suggested that, should an ordinance be pursued, the township could engage with businesses to discuss transitional measures, including provisions for the use of existing stockpiles of single-use plastics.
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Supervisor Dana Kane called for a review of studies on the topic to assess the long-term benefits of such a ban.
The proposal has garnered public support, as evidenced by a township resident who, during the public comment period, presented over 100 signatures endorsing the ban.
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There is a growing single-use plastics ban trend across Pennsylvania, where municipalities like Doylestown Borough and Solebury Township in Bucks County have already implemented similar bans.
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