Impact and Analysis of U.S. Skip the Stuff Policies

Abstract

Plastic pollution is a pervasive global problem with dangerous environmental and public health consequences. Attempts to mitigate plastic pollution through policy have passed in several U.S. states but there is limited knowledge of their effectiveness. “Skip the Stuff” (STS) policies seek to curb single-use plastic use by restricting food service providers and deliverers from automatic provision of single-use plastic accessories (utensils, straws, and condiment containers). The policy permits single-use plastic accessory use only upon customer request. STS policies are expanding across the U.S. at local, county, and state scales. This analysis leverages descriptive, spatial, and quantitative methods to explore STS policy relevance, spatial distribution, and local impact. The analysis seeks to answer the following question: Should the Surfrider Foundation champion STS policies to reduce plastic pollution? Results indicate that STS policies are rising in popularity, spatially related, correlated with negative effects on plastic pollution, and are strengthened by NGOs.