Abstract
Plastic pollution is a global issue that has affected almost every ecosystem on Earth. This issue is especially problematic in coastal areas, where plastics enter marine ecosystems. In addition, coastal urban areas are often tourism hotspots, as in the case of Miami Beach, Florida. Tourism can lead to an increase in pollution, which in turn can cause a decrease in tourism. Plastic pollution mitigation often falls to local governments, which have developed regulations and programs in attempts to reduce the amount of plastic that is produced, used, and discarded. In many states, such as Florida, local governments are working towards coming up with creative solutions to this issue due to state laws prohibiting bans on certain types of plastics. The City of Miami Beach (CMB) has developed the Plastic Free Miami Beach (PFMB) program to encourage environmental stewardship within the community through the reduction of single use plastics. This project aimed to expand and improve the PFMB program and extend its reach to schools, additional businesses and other municipalities. Due to the pandemic, there were concerns that many businesses would be forced to return to single use plastics, which is detrimental to the environment. By surveying member businesses, I actually found that many of them were able to maintain their commitment to PFMB, which was an unexpected positive outcome. In order to further expand PFMB, I developed initiatives to involve additional businesses, schools, the community and other cities in the program. It is important to get more people involved because they can develop sustainable habits, which will create a more sustainable community. By expanding PFMB, there will be a larger overall reduction in plastic pollution, which will benefit the environment and Miami Beach greatly for years to come.