To create a more sustainable and healthier environment, the Zero Waste Task Force is supporting the following bills:
PFAS Prevention Package
In 2021 we passed a ban on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in food packaging. This year we’re trying to expand the ban to other products we use everyday.
PFAS are toxic and are connected to many serious health problems including: kidney cancer, testicular cancer, reduced immune response, ulcerative colitis, thyroid disease, low birthweight babies, infertility, and other reproductive problems. PFAS are known as “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down in the environment. They’re toxic at very low levels—parts per trillion—and are building up in the environment.
The best way to address the problem is to stop producing PFAS.
Please contact your Minnesota Senator and ask them to support these important PFAS bills:
- Information Disclosure (SF450/HF372) Minnesota needs an accurate picture of where PFAS chemicals are being used and for what purpose. This bill would require manufacturers to disclose the amount of PFAS they’re using, in which products it’s being used.
- PFAS Non-Essential Use Ban (SF834/HF1000) We need to reduce exposure to toxic PFAS chemicals in our homes and in our environment. To do this, we are seeking a ban on PFAS in all products other than those essential for health, safety or the functioning of society and for which safer alternatives are not available.
- Firefighting Foam Loophole Closure (SF776/HF742) In 2019, Minnesota banned the use of PFAS firefighting foam for testing or training purposes. However, there are still many ways these foams can be used in the state. This bill would ban all uses of PFAS in firefighting foams that are not currently required by federal law to reduce human exposure and water/soil contamination.
Producer Responsibility for Packaging
Plastic pollution is a crisis—more recycling can’t fix it. This bill holds producers responsible for the cost of managing packaging waste. Brands will pay a fee for the type and amount of packaging material they use. The fees will be used to improve recycling systems, offset recycling costs, and pilot reuse/refill systems. This will also help:
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Reduce the amount of packaging produced
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Increase the recyclability of packaging
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Increase reuse/refill options
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Remove toxic chemicals in packaging
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Increase post-consumer content in packaging
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Reduce litter and reduce trash going to landfills
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Create clear, consistent labeling
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Reduce hard-to-recycle packaging
Contact your State Representative and Senator and ask them to support the Producer Responsibility Bill.