FORT COLLINS, CO – City Council has identified reducing plastic pollution in the community as a priority and is seeking community input for developing a plastics reduction ordinance prior to an April ballot vote. Prioritizing plastic pollution, specifically single-use plastic pollution, will help protect the health of the Cache la Poudre River and make progress on our community’s zero waste and climate action goals.

Plastic pollution is often perceived to be an issue isolated to coastal areas, however it also impacts inland environments, including Fort Collins. Not all plastic can be or is recycled and its lightweight nature means that on windy days it can be carried out of trash and recycling bins and into the environment, including our rivers. Single-use plastics (plastic bags, straws, take-out containers, plastic utensils, expanded polystyrene, etc.) are especially problematic. Council’s plastic bag policy is a first step in a comprehensive approach to tackling the issue.

Community feedback on a proposed single-use plastic ordinance will help Council finalize the details of the ordinance and related ballot measure for the April 2021 municipal election. Join in the conversation and share feedback on proposed policy before January 10, 2021. Council will discuss proposed ordinance language during a Work Session on January 12, 2021 with tentative consideration at the February 2 and February 16 meetings.

Share feedback and learn more at OurCity.FCGov.com/Plastics.