CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. — The City of Charlottetown wants to know how its residents and business owners feel about single-use plastic items.
A survey has been launched on the city’s website at Charlottetown.ca/survey.
Single-use plastics, such as straws, stir sticks and food take-away containers, are manufactured for the purpose of being used only once, usually for a brief period, but these items persist in the natural environment for hundreds of years.
About a third of three million tonnes of plastic waste generated by Canadians annually is comprised of single-use plastic products and packaging. The prevalence of these and other plastic items within the global economy has led to significant environmental concerns for marine species and environments.
Coun. Terry MacLeod, chairman of the environment and sustainability committee, says the survey is timely with the recent provincial ban on plastic bags.
“The city wants to lead by example and is currently working with the tourism and event departments to reduce waste generated from events,’’ MacLeod said.
Data and feedback collected from the survey will be used by the city to inform staff about the attitudes of residents and business owners and vendors and get a clearer sense of some of the barriers and challenges faced when it comes to reducing single-use plastic consumption.
This information will be used to help shape a community education campaign.
Individuals and businesses that complete the survey will have the option to be entered in a draw to win a $200 Visa gift card. Survey results will be anonymous, and the deadline to complete either survey is Thursday, Aug. 29 by 4 p.m.
Printed copies of the survey are available at City Hall on Queen Street at the front reception desk during business hours.
Completed copies of the survey can be dropped off or mailed to City Hall at P.O. Box 98, Charlottetown, C1A 7K2.
For more information, call 902-566-5548.
