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On May 7, a pivotal event is set to unfold at the New York State Capitol in Albany, where passionate advocates will gather to tackle a pressing issue: plastic pollution. This gathering isn’t merely a protest; it’s a call to action, a chance for citizens to urge their state legislators to prioritize people over plastics. By supporting the Packaging Reduction & Recycling Infrastructure Act alongside the Bigger Better Bottle Bill, attendees can contribute to a significant shift in how we approach waste and environmental responsibility.
What to expect on advocacy day
As the sun rises on that fateful Wednesday, participants will convene at the Legislative Office Building at 10:00 AM. This will be a time to orient ourselves, grab a cup of coffee, and enjoy some breakfast snacks. Energized by our organizers’ inspiring words and the presence of legislative champions, everyone will be introduced to their team leaders and fellow advocates. The anticipation will build until noon, when we will erupt into a rally at West Capital Park, uniting our voices for a common cause.
The remainder of the day will be spent engaging directly with state senators and assembly members, passionately advocating for these bills. You’ll be part of a dynamic group led by an experienced team leader. To prepare you for effective discussions, we’ll provide talking points and important information in advance. Once you RSVP, we will follow up with an invitation to a virtual briefing on April 30 at 6:00 PM. During this session, we will delve into the details of both bills, outline the schedule for Advocacy Day, and share strategies to maximize the impact of your legislative meetings.
Transportation options for participants
For those traveling from downstate regions, generous supporters have arranged complimentary transportation to Albany. If you wish to take advantage of this service, simply select your preferred pickup location on the RSVP form. There will be two buses departing from the Tick Tock Diner at W 34th Street and 8th Avenue in Manhattan at 7 AM. Additionally, one bus will stop in Westchester at the Tappan Zee Bridge Public Parking Lot, while another will pick up passengers in Kingston at the Thruway Exit 19 Park n’ Ride. Expect to arrive in Albany between 10:00 and 10:30 AM, and after a day of advocacy, buses will return around 4:30 PM, ensuring you’re back in the city by approximately 7:00 PM.
Why these bills matter
The importance of the Packaging Reduction & Recycling Infrastructure Act and the Bigger Better Bottle Bill cannot be overstated. Plastic packaging is a significant contributor to environmental degradation, primarily because it is derived from fossil fuels and chemicals. Alarmingly, the United States leads the world in plastic pollution, producing emissions that surpass even the global aviation industry. With only about 5-6% of plastic being recycled, the need for systemic change is urgent.
Plastic doesn’t biodegrade; it merely breaks down into microplastics, which have infiltrated human blood, organs, and even breastmilk. The Packaging Reduction Act aims to tackle plastic waste at its source, promoting recyclable and less toxic alternatives. Meanwhile, the Bigger Better Bottle Bill seeks to modernize existing laws to recapture billions of valuable recyclable containers from waste streams. This is where grassroots advocacy comes in. With significant opposition from the American Chemistry Council and fossil fuel companies, your voice is crucial in this battle.
Join us on May 7 and lend your voice to a movement that seeks not only to protect our environment but also to ensure a sustainable future for the automotive industry and beyond. Together, we can make a difference!