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1. Why a single-use plastic bag and straw ordinance in Media and why now?

• To reduce plastic pollution
• To reduce plastic litter
• To reduce plastic waste
• Our neighbor states, New York, New Jersey and Delaware, have single-use plastic bag laws; some of our neighboring municipalities have already enacted ordinances:
  • West Goshen
  • Haverford
  • West Chester
  • Narberth
  • Philadelphia
• Media residents are concerned about environmental issues and want to be part of the solution

2. How did this ordinance come about?

In 2021, the Media Borough Environmental Advisory Council (EAC) began researching a single-use plastic bag and straw ordinance to recommend to Borough Council. They looked at similar ordinances elsewhere, talked with representatives from Penn Environment and Clean Air Council, and sponsored a Zoom meeting with other Delaware County EAC's. They reached out to the Media Business Authority (MBA) for feedback and began a conversation with Borough Council members about an ordinance. In April 2022, the EAC and MBA held a focus group and an information session for local business and restaurants.

3. What types of bags are banned under the ordinance?

• Single-use plastic bags, made of synthetic or plastic material, that are provided by a Commercial Establishment to a customer at or around the point of sale
• Any bags created through a "blown film extrusion" process
• Bio-based plastic bags: "bio-based" or "compostable" plastic is still partially composed of fossil-based plastic and contains similar amounts of toxicity

4. What straws would be banned under the ordinance?

Any single-use plastic straw or drink stirrer provided by a business with beverages, including but not limited to coffee, cocktails, fountain sodas and juices. It does not include packaged beverages prepared and packaged outside of the Borough.

5. Why are plastic bags so harmful?

• Litter and Costs: Plastic bags and straws are a main source of litter in the Borough. They are hazardous to drainage and sewer systems and creeks, and they clog up recycling sorting facilities-all of which drive up costs for the Borough.
• Health Hazards: Plastics contain toxic chemicals, which pose risks to ecosystems, wildlife and human health. Single-use plastics are non-biodegradable products that do not undergo biological decomposition and break down into microparticles over time leaking into our soil and waterways. A 2021 PennEnvironment study found microplastic contamination in all of Delaware County's creeks. Microplastics are emerging as a serious health crisis as scientists understand their lasting impact on human health.
• Climate Change: The entire lifecycle of plastics - from pre-production to disposal - expose people and ecosystems to toxic chemicals. Plastics are created using fossil fuels which contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Items used for a few minutes of convenience pollute the environment for hundreds of years.

6. What types of bags will businesses be able to provide?

Reusable bags are the best choice: No bag option is without impact. The goal is to reduce waste by encouraging customers to bring their reusable bags.

• Reusable bags are bags that are specifically designed and manufactured for multiple reuses. Cotton, jute or other renewable fibers are the best choice.
• Paper Bags that meet the ordinance requirements - with at least 40% recycled content and labeled "recyclable" or "recycled content" - may be provided. Businesses may charge customers a minimum of $0.10 bag fee for paper bags.

7. What about the bag-fee?

A minimum $0.10 bag fee or more may be retained by businesses if they choose. The purpose of the fee is twofold: it supports businesses by off-setting the added cost of paper bags and secondly it encourages consumers to bring their own bag, which is the goal of this ordinance.

8. What happens if my business fails to comply?

Once enforcement of the ordinance begins on July 1, 2023, a Commercial Establishment that violates or fails to comply with any of the ordinance requirements will receive an initial written warning notice. Further violations will entail fines as follows:

• Fine of $50 for a 1st offense
• Fine of $100 for a 2nd offense
• Fine of $300 for a 3rd or any subsequent offense

9. My business not only complies with the ordinance, but also has other sustainability initiatives to reduce waste. Can I be recognized for these efforts?

Yes! Media Borough is developing a sustainability incentive program to recognize our local businesses that go above and beyond to reduce waste and improve sustainability. Stay tuned for more details.

10. Where can my business or customers find more information on the ordinance?

Media Borough is developing resources and marketing materials that will be made available online and distributed in print to educate the community and support businesses throughout implementation.

11. What else can I do to reduce plastic pollution?

You can reduce your plastic use in many other ways:

• Buy produce fresh food without plastic packaging
• Use nylon or string bags to hold your produce purchases rather than plastic produce bags
• Buy in bulk when you can and bring your own containers
• If you eat out and expect to need a 'doggie bag', bring your own containers to put your unfinished meals in

The more of these habits you learn, the more ways you'll find to keep reducing single-use plastics from your life! The planet will thank you!