[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 95 (Tuesday, June 23, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1537]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  ENVIRONMENTALLY CONSCIOUS PACKAGING

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                            HON. JAY INSLEE

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 23, 2009

  Mr. INSLEE. Madam Speaker, it has come to my attention that a number 
of companies in the outdoor industry have begun taking steps to reduce 
the amount of packaging that accompany their products. I commend the 
companies for their efforts to reduce waste and minimize their 
environmental footprint.
  These businesses have taken meaningful steps toward the preservation 
of our planet, and they set a vital example for businesses throughout 
America. Over the past year, a coalition of outdoor industry companies 
worked together to create policies for the reduction of consumer waste. 
I was pleased to learn that they have successfully followed through 
with these policies, utilizing higher levels of recycled material and 
reducing the amount of packaging used in production.
  As these companies demonstrate, a reduction in waste can be 
accomplished through a variety of innovative practices. In order to cut 
down on the use of new materials, one footwear company redesigned their 
shoeboxes to use 100 percent post-recycled content. A family-owned 
business that sells camping equipment began packaging mattresses in 
completely degradable plastic bags. Another travel accessories company 
completely overhauled their packaging program, eliminating about 15 
tons of packaging waste.
  These companies are a beacon of environmental awareness and 
responsible stewardship. They provide an example to all American 
businesses involved in manufacturing, which must begin to see the 
reduction of consumer waste as an essential step in protecting our 
environment. As members of Congress, it is our responsibility to 
encourage every industry to begin making such environmentally conscious 
choices as these.

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