Letter from Lindsay Thomas

Recycling Bill Must Be Passed

I am genuinely concerned about the lack of coverage of New York State’s recycling issue on AllOtsego.com, especially with regard to the Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act (A. 5322D) in the Assembly right now. I am writing to urge my fellow New York State citizens to put pressure on Assembly Member Brian D. Miller to cosponsor this act and ensure its passage through the Assembly.

Plastic recycling is a perplexing task due to the different chemical compositions, colors, and types of plastics being recycled in one place. Many plastics that could be reused end up in landfills or incinerated due to the lack of correct recycling.

This is not only a New York State issue, but an issue on the global scale. However, total successful recycling in New York is about 20 percent, which is well under what should be considered acceptable—the national average is 32 percent. It is our job as citizens to help change this miserable statistic, at least in our state.

The Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act would put pressure on manufacturers/companies in New York State to decrease the production of plastic overall. These companies would have to find more sustainable and environmentally-friendly options in terms of packaging or pay a fine.

By helping decrease the amount of plastic being produced, we will be directly helping our state’s climate footprint. Other states have been proactive about passing this act, including California, Colorado and Maine. It is our turn and responsibility to do the same.

Once again, I urge you to contact Assembly Member Brian D. Miller in hopes that this act can be passed for a more environmentally-friendly tomorrow.

Lindsay Thomas
Burlington Flats