County launches Plastic Free 305 for businesses to cut waste

County launches Plastic Free 305 for businesses to cut waste

Program aims to keep single-use plastics out of local waters

As thousands of volunteers gathered for the 40th anniversary of the Baynanza Biscayne Bay Cleanup Day, picking up approximately 30 tons of litter and debris from the coastline and spoil islands, Miami Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and Commissioner Eileen Higgins launched  Plastic Free 305, a new voluntary program for businesses committed to reducing and eliminating single-use plastics from their day-to-day operations.

“Our society has become accustomed to single-use or disposable plastics with severe environmental consequences,” said Mayor Levine Cava. “Plastic Free 305 celebrates and supports Miami-Dade County businesses dedicated to eliminating their use of single-use plastics, such as plastic bags, straws, cups, and utensils.”

Plastic Free 305 is designed as a three-tier annual certification based on the progressive level of single-use plastic elimination by each business. Merchants can start by pledging to eliminate single-use plastics and move up the tiers as they make progress toward that goal. The  program’s website walks businesses through the application process and provides valuable information on plastics in the environment, making a clear case for how vital it is for businesses to eliminate them from their operations. Participating businesses can also find resources on the website to help them on their journey to becoming plastic free.

“Miami-Dade has a history of being committed to protecting the environment due to our location and the harm that natural resources - like our beloved Biscayne Bay - have suffered due to pollution,” said Commissioner Higgins. “The Plastic Free 305 program is yet another way businesses can voluntarily step up to help eliminate the plastic waste that overwhelms our vital ecosystems. Through this program we continue to create a healthier, more sustainable community and protect the people living in it.”