How many of you have turned to ordering takeout over the past few years? I know it’s the peak of my week! But we have a big problem with our beloved takeout: what it comes in. The styrofoam and plastic used in many takeout containers can kill off species, destroy our air, and even contribute to heart disease in humans.

Now, restaurants and businesses turn to plastic containers for a valid reason: they are significantly cheaper. In fact, plastic is half the price of paper containers and less than a fifth the cost of biodegradable options. It is not fair to blame restaurants for making tough choices to stay afloat. This why we cannot ban plastics outright.

If we were to ban plastics, businesses would struggle or find ways around the rules. So, what if instead of forcing local restaurants to bear another economical burdened, we offer tax rebates?

Imagine this: a business submits their tax forms and shows proof of using eco-friendly containers. In return, our state provides a rebate. Enough money to incentivize a change. Enough money to compensate for the difference between plastic containers and sustainable ones.

If you’d like to see less plastic in your weekly takeout and help your favorite local restaurant go green, sign this petition. Let’s make a realistic path forward.