Column: Symonds On Single-Use Plastics & More

[Opinion column written by OBA candidate Malachi Symonds]

We live in a world where, at times, convenience comes with a high cost.

Single-use plastics have emerged as a major contributor to both environmental degradation and public health crises.

A recent study revealed that plastics were responsible for producing 5.3% of greenhouse gas emissions in 2019 and 12% of the world’s oil demand.

With plastic production forecast to likely double — and possibly triple — by 2050, plastic production is undermining the world’s effort to control the climate crisis.

The One Bermuda Alliance understands the importance of reducing single-use plastics in Bermuda. In 2021, the OBA took the bipartisan step of presenting the current government with legislation we prepared so that it could be considered as part of the PLP’s announced consultation on this important initiative.

Bermuda has yet to see any tangible results.

At the heart of the OBA Bill is a recognition that the reduction — and eventual elimination — of single use plastics on our Island will best succeed by adopting a gradual process. We also recognize that progress will not happen unless and until our Island has the collective courage to take the very first step.

To us, a gradual process means a collaborative approach – seeking buy-in from as many as possible along the way.

We don’t want to negatively impact businesses that currently depend on some of these items to make an income. And we appreciate that in certain circumstances – for example medicine and fishing — replacement of certain products will take some time.

Yet we also know the impacts single use plastics are having on the community and the global environment.

What we believe is needed is a legislative road map, starting first with gradual and targeted reduction of certain non-essential single use plastic items. And then eventually arriving at elimination of identified items — not by heavy-handed mandate, but by consensus and collaboration.

The OBA proposed legislation starts with a few items for removal over the short term period and, importantly, it then provides a mechanism for other items of single use plastic to be gradually considered for removal over time, and by initiative and discretion.

The approach we propose will allow transition time for the development of non-plastic alternatives – as well as the sourcing of existing alternatives, recognizing that price of alternatives is also an important factor here.

The OBA is committed to improving Bermuda for all its stake holders.

And our proposed reduction of single use plastics is not merely driven by environmental concerns.

The chemicals found in plastic are also likely to be one of the causes of our health crisis. This is because the chemicals associated with plastics are linked to a wide range of diseases.

Some of the chemicals found in plastic are endocrine disrupters which are linked to a steady decline in human fertility.

Shockingly, studies have shown that global fertility rates have plummeted by 50% from 1973 to 2011, a trend attributed to exposure to environmental chemicals such as those in plastics and lifestyle factors.

Our exposure to micro and nano plastics is also causing alarm. According to a recent study, the impact of chemicals used in plastic materials added $745 a year per person to US healthcare expenses. The consequences of our reliance on plastics extend far beyond environmental concerns, penetrating deep into the fabric of our well-being. The potential benefits of embracing a plastic-free future are not just environmental; they are economic, social, and health-related.

Amidst these daunting challenges, a beacon of hope shines on the horizon. Sustainable solutions that reduce our dependance on single-use plastics in Bermuda are coming into our market. The transition towards using alternative materials like fiber, aluminum, and glass, coupled with a robust recycling infrastructure, holds the promise creating a more sustainable Bermuda and revolutionizing our economy.

One of our eventual goals should be for all potable water to be sold in bottles that aren’t plastic. Water is a necessity for life and should be as healthy as possible. This should help to reduce healthcare costs as well. By embracing these and other environmental changes, Bermuda can unlock opportunities to create new industries, generate employment, enhance public health, stimulate tourism and lower healthcare costs.

While change may require adjustments and will doubtless take some time to implement, collective action and support are paramount in fostering a sustainable future for Bermuda.

Let us rally behind environmental initiatives, embrace conscious consumption, and pave the way towards a greener, healthier Bermuda for generations to come. Using wholistic solutions that address the problems and not the causes, we need to make a step towards changing policies that will benefit all.

By standing together, empowering one another, and championing sustainable practices, we have the power to transform our island into a beacon of environmental stewardship and well-being.

The time to start this change is now. Let’s take that first step together.

- Malachi Symonds, OBA Constituency 15 candidate

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Category: All, Environment, News