Our coastal community is being threatened by the growing impact of single-use plastic pollution. From plastic bags and Styrofoam containers to straws and wrappers, these items are used for just moments but linger in our environment for generations—clogging our waterways, harming marine life, and damaging the natural beauty that makes our area so special.

Plastic pollution isn’t just unsightly—it’s dangerous.

11 million metric tons of plastic enter the ocean every year.
90% of seabirds and more than half of sea turtles have plastic in their stomachs.
Microplastics have been found in our seafood, drinking water, and even the air we breathe.
Coastal economies that rely on clean beaches and healthy ecosystems suffer when pollution drives away tourism and fishing.

In 2023, a provision was added to the North Carolina state budget that stripped cities and counties of the power to regulate single-use plastics. This means that Southport, Brunswick County, and other communities across the state are currently prohibited from passing their own local solutions—no matter how urgently they’re needed.

We believe decisions about protecting our environment should be made by the people who live here, not dictated by state-level politics. We are calling on our local and state officials to repeal or amend this harmful provision and restore the right of communities to take action.

On Earth Day—April 22—I will be sending letters and emails directly to our local and state representatives to urge them to restore local authority and take real steps toward reducing plastic pollution. Your signature on this petition will be included as a demonstration of public support for this critical cause.

If you care about clean water, healthy wildlife, and a sustainable future for our coast, please add your name. Together, we can show our leaders that Southport is ready to lead the way.