August 07, 2019

Protecting Our Island – Restriction on Single-Use Plastics

The Town is committed to doing our part to reduce single-use plastic pollution and protect Kiawah’s natural environment. In June, Town Council passed an ordinance restricting the distribution of certain single-use items by businesses. In passing this ordinance, it is our intention to protect our waterways, marine life, and environment and promote positive environmental change on our island for generations to come.

Residents, please be aware that beginning September 8, all businesses within the Town are prohibited from distributing single-use plastic carryout bags, plastic straws, and products made from polystyrene foam (Styrofoam). The ordinance also prohibits the possession of these items and balloons on the beach. These items are the most common products that escape into the ocean and waterways and harm our local marine life. They are also the easiest to replace.

With Kiawah being such an environmentally conscious community, you may be wondering, “Are plastics on Kiawah a problem?” Plastic pollution is a global problem, but you may be interested to see the data from Kiawah’s litter documentation conducted from January 2018 – March 2019. Data is provided by the Litter Free Digital Journal, a South Carolina Aquarium citizen participation program. More information

Plastics are primarily about convenience, and the pressure for plastic consumption comes from consumers. Luckily, there are alternatives to many single-use items, and with a few simple changes, you can participate in the movement to reduce plastic pollution.

Other Ways to Choose Alternatives:

• Say no thank you to plastic cutlery.
• Store a reusable grocery tote in your purse or car.
• Switch out plastic snack bags for reusable containers.
• Bring your reusable water bottle wherever you go.
• Bring your reusable coffee cup to the coffee shop.
• At the ice-cream shop, choose a cone over a cup with a plastic spoon.
• Use a razor with replaceable blades instead of a disposable razor.
• Use reusable or biodegradable coolers like this one.

Along the way, you can teach others about why you choose to reuse!