New York City is considering a ban on the use of laundry detergent capsules in order to save the environment. The ban will also include a hefty fine for selling them.
This is happening at a time when the city is struggling with illegal border crossers, a huge crime problem, and a shrinking tax base as people with the means to do so flee the city.
Don't they have bigger problems to deal with than laundry pods?
The New York Post reports:
New York City may ban detergent packets including Tide PODS in latest 'green' campaign — with fines of up to $1,200 for selling them
New York City may soon ban Tide PODS and other laundry detergent refills under the latest “green” push from lawmakers.
The “Pods Are Plastic” bill, introduced by City Councilman James Gennaro last week, would make it illegal to sell any pods and wash caps if they are made of polyvinyl alcohol.
Fines for selling pods would start at $400, double for a second violation, and reach $1,200 for violating the rules more than twice, if the bill becomes law. The bill would also require education and communication with businesses about the ban for the first year.
The law will not take effect until January 1, 2026, if passed.
Polyvinyl alcohol, or PVA, is used as a coating in the pods that dissolves in water during the wash cycle. But scientists say it breaks down into tiny pieces of plastic that still pollute waterways and seep through filtration systems.
About 19,000 tons of PVA are used each year in pods, with more than 8,000 tons left untreated in U.S. waters, according to a 2021 study.
What do you think comes next?
A whole new black market. Laundry supplies. pic.twitter.com/r4dTclARIG
– Hummingbird (@Humming_birder) February 12, 2024
Easier than attacking the real problems I think
– DSP (@DonnaPence5) February 13, 2024
Soon, we will only be able to wash our clothes by banging them on rocks in the riverbed. https://t.co/SDfZFI48Nz
– Lawn Gilland Bobby (@MetsBob) February 12, 2024
Is this what progress looks like?
(Image source)
