Plastics pollute, but this is the worst

Brooklyn: It is now Plastic Free July, a time dedicated to ocean protection and activism in the face of pollution, climate change and many other threats to a healthy ecosystem. Unfortunately, the New York State Legislature adjourned for the year before passing the Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act, which would’ve curbed the production of single-use plastics, supported public health and banned some of the most toxic chemicals in plastic packaging. With state legislation off the table for now, action at the federal level is still possible and much needed.

Plastic foam, also called expanded polystyrene, threatens our oceans and our health.  It’s used for single-use plates, cups, takeout containers and packing materials.  It’s both lightweight and brittle. Because plastic foam is so light, when it breaks apart, the tiny pieces can easily be carried far and wide by wind and water, making it one of the most common forms of plastic pollution found in U.S. rivers, lakes and marine environments.

According to a national poll of U.S. registered voters released by Oceana in 2025, nearly 80% of U.S. voters support national, state and local policies that reduce single-use plastic foam. The Farewell to Foam Act in Congress would help address this problematic plastic. Ask your federal lawmakers to phase out plastic foam by cosponsoring this legislation.

Accord, N.Y.: I’d like to ask you to advocate in one of your editorials for Columbia University opening the gates on Broadway and 116th St., and Amsterdam Ave. and 116th St. When I’m in that part of town, I like buying lunch and sitting on the........

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