ADVOCACY

Better Policies Create Change

We believe that with better policies in place, the next generation will have a fighting chance to see climate change balanced through innovative product and packaging solutions, dedicated corporate accountability, and better consumer behavior.

The 5 Gyres advocacy team engages in policy work through coalition-building on local, regional, national, and global scales. Through these networks, we advocate for better regulation of plastic usage and disposal worldwide by providing scientific data to further policy change.

OUR ACHIEVEMENTS

  • Led the #BeadFree campaign that helped pass The Microbead-Free Waters Act of 2015

  • Spearheaded the creation of local coalitions including Reusable LA and Austin Reuse Coalition

  • Contributed to the passing of several local and state bills, including an expanded polystyrene ban in Los Angeles and returnable beverage bottle systems in California

  • Testified before Congress about biomaterials and shared findings from our research

  • Co-sponsored the introduction of a microfiber filtration bill in California

5 Gyres plays a leadership role with Reusable LA and the Austin Reuse Coalition, and actively engages with the Clean Seas Coalition, National Reuse Network, Plastic-Free National Parks, and the Break Free From Plastic movement. Though policy is an ever-changing and slow-moving process, we are thrilled to be on the front lines of using science to inform real change through upstream solutions in our local, national, and global communities.

Microfiber Reduction in California

A single load of laundry can release up to 18 million microfibers, but our research shows that filters are a proven solution that can dramatically reduce the amount of microfibers entering the environment. 5 Gyres co-sponsored AB 1628 (McKinnor), which would have required new washing machines in California to contain a microfiber filtration system by 2029. Unfortunately, Governor Newsom vetoed this bill, but we are continuing to advocate for this solution.

BECOME AN ACTIVIST!

Be part of the solution and make your voice heard when it’s needed most, through signing a petition, writing to your legislators, or sharing on social media. Join our Ambassador community to get monthly action alerts delivered straight to your inbox and network with other activists in your region.

Pictured: 5 Gyres Ambassadors Madeleine MacGillivray and Raine Manley advocating for #SkiptheStuff in New York City