To the editor:

Our waterways are under threat from harmful plastic pollution. Americans throw away an estimated 70 million plastic foam cups each year, and about one-third end up in our rivers, lakes and oceans.

Here, on Bainbridge Island, we see this pollution first hand and it is time we do something about this hazardous, single-use villain.

This plastic waste doesn’t biodegrade, but instead breaks down into smaller pieces that continue to pollute our waterways for decades. Dangerous plastic fragments have been found ingested by literally hundreds of different species, and have been found in drinking water. We and marine animals are at risk because of profitable, environmentally ignorant businesses.

It isn’t just the health of our wild spaces in peril. Our “clean” drinking water supplies are also in danger from our wasteful habits.

Material over money and wildlife over waste! Let’s protect our waterways, our own health and our wildlife by banning foam cups and takeout containers here in Washington.

We are the voice of the ocean, and it’s calling.

MYKHAIL LEMBKE

Field Manager, Fund for the Public Interest

Bainbridge Island