New Survey Shows Californians Are Overwhelmingly Concerned About Plastic Pollution - Oceana USA

New Survey Shows Californians Are Overwhelmingly Concerned About Plastic Pollution

Press Release Date: July 30, 2021

Location: California

Contact:

Dustin Cranor, APR | email: dcranor@oceana.org | tel: 954.348.1314

New polling released Wednesday found that 93% of Californians think plastics and marine debris are a problem. The results of the annual survey — known as the “Californians and the Environment” report and published by the Public Policy Institute of California — clearly indicate Californians consider environmental health a priority and are particularly concerned about plastic pollution.

Oceana released the following statement from Pacific policy and communications manager Ashley Blacow-Draeger in response to the report’s findings:

“The plastic pollution crisis has escalated to a level we can no longer ignore. This survey is proof that Californians are seeing the problem with their own eyes and are fed up with plastic’s impacts on our oceans and coastlines. It’s not only an eyesore for residents but is also taking money out of their pockets — local jurisdictions spend $420 million annually in efforts to clean up and prevent plastic debris from entering oceans and waterways. Plastic pollution is also devastating to ocean wildlife and poses significant risks to human health and our quality of life as Californians.

Enough is enough. It’s time for Californians to take action to stop plastic pollution at the source. State lawmakers need to pass a package of bills — referred to as the Circular Economy bill package — this year, and California voters need to use their collective voices via their ballots next November to pass the Plastic Free California initiative that will comprehensively reduce single-use plastic packaging and foodware at the source.”

Oceana is the largest international advocacy organization dedicated solely to ocean conservation. Oceana is rebuilding abundant and biodiverse oceans by winning science-based policies in countries that control one-third of the world’s wild fish catch. With more than 225 victories that stop overfishing, habitat destruction, pollution, and the killing of threatened species like turtles and sharks, Oceana’s campaigns are delivering results. A restored ocean means that 1 billion people can enjoy a healthy seafood meal, every day, forever. Together, we can save the oceans and help feed the world. Visit USA.Oceana.org to learn more.