Dear John,
You’ve probably seen straws in the news the past few days. I founded “The Last Plastic Straw” in 2011 to raise awareness about the absurdity of single-use plastic.
In recent years it has become ever more clear: this is so much bigger than straws. Today I am the Advocacy & Engagement Manager at Plastic Pollution Coalition, where we know what the solutions to this massive global crisis are—strong policies that focus on plastic pollution prevention, better business practices, and a culture shift. We work every single day to make these solutions a reality.
Some people want to distract from the real issue: that plastic poisons people and the planet, and industry needs to stop making so much of it.
Plastics contain any mixture of more than 16,000 chemicals, more than 4,200 of which are known hazards to human health. When we use plastic straws, cups, plates, utensils, and food packaging, we are literally ingesting those toxic particles and chemicals.
Micro and nano plastic particles are accumulating at alarming rates inside of our bodies, including in our hearts, lungs, blood—even in testicles. Researchers estimate there is a whole spoon’s worth of plastic in our brains, where it definitely doesn’t belong. Plastic particles have also been found in placenta and breast milk, so that children today are born plasticized.
To change this nightmare scenario, our leaders need to support policies that reduce plastic production, not grow it. And they need to support plastic- and toxic-free, regenerative materials and systems of reuse and refill. At Plastic Pollution Coalition, we are committed to working for the systemic change we need, and we will not be distracted. Plastic never was and never will be disposable, and neither are people.
We are extremely grateful for your ongoing support throughout the years.
Onward together,
Jackie Nuñez
Advocacy & Engagement Manager
Plastic Pollution Coalition
& Founder, The Last Plastic Straw
PS. It’s more important than ever that we have your support. Will you donate today? |
