On November 20, 2024, Miami-Dade County Commissioners approved a resolution to limit the use of single-use plastics and polystyrene (styrofoam) by vendors on county-owned properties. Surfrider’s Miami Chapter has long fought for the reduction and elimination of single-use plastics alongside Debris Free Oceans and other community partners. The resolution’s passage in Miami-Dade is an important step forward in reducing the distribution of single-use plastics and protecting our treasured coasts and ocean.
Plastic pollution poses a serious threat to public health and the health of our ocean and marine life. Studies estimate that 11 metric tons of plastic enter the oceans each year – the equivalent of a garbage truck dumping a full load of plastic into the ocean every minute of every day of the year. Entanglement in debris and ingesting plastic debris causes suffering and countless deaths of marine life. As plastics are exposed to the elements, they break down into smaller pieces known as “microplastics.” These microscopic plastic particles further cripple marine ecosystems and disrupt the food chain. Recent studies have found microplastics present in fruits, vegetables, tap water, and seafood that may be consumed by humans, which can have negative health impacts related to the chemicals found in plastics.
The removal of microplastics from the coasts and ocean is exceptionally challenging because of the size and sheer amount of the particles, which makes reducing and eliminating the production and use of single-use plastics and styrofoam products all the more important and effective to address plastic pollution. Unfortunately, preemption at the state level in Florida makes it difficult for local governments to regulate plastics, even when local community members and businesses are supportive of reduction and elimination efforts. As Surfrider chapters across the state continue to push for the repeal of the state preemption blocking most plastics regulation, local government action and leadership where possible are vital to taking on the state’s plastic pollution problem.
Miami-Dade County’s new restriction on plastics will apply to future contracts between the county and vendors on county-owned property, including Miami International Airport. The restriction requires vendors on county-owned property to eliminate single-use plastics and styrofoam products “to the greatest extent possible.” The restriction will apply to various items including straws, utensils, containers, beverage bottles, and bags. Notably, the restriction does not apply to pre-packaged food. The restriction builds on Miami-Dade’s Plastic Free 305 Initiative, a voluntary program for businesses eliminating single-use plastics, the county’s commitment to Purpose-Driven Procurement processes, and actions by Zoo Miami and Hard Rock Stadium to reduce plastics onsite.
Surfrider’s Miami Chapter members attended public meetings and provided support for the resolution over several years of fighting for its passage. The Miami Chapter leads beach cleanups to engage and activate the local community about the challenges facing our coasts. The Miami Chapter also builds relationships with local businesses through Surfrider’s Ocean Friendly Restaurants program and Rise Above Plastics program. In addition to programming and advocacy at the local level, Miami Chapter members join other members of Surfrider's Florida network to advocate in Tallahassee for statewide action on plastics, including securing a ban on intentional balloon releases in 2024.
Surfrider Foundation's Miami Chapter commends the Miami-Dade County Commissioners and celebrates this victory for our coasts and ocean. You can learn more about Surfrider’s Miami Chapter and opportunities to get involved here.