Laura Byrd Porter is the founder of Byrd’s Filling Station and a champion of reducing single-use plastics.

Byrd’s of a Feather

Sign Petition to Mayor

As a resident of San Mateo, I am aware of the devastating ecological consequences of
unsustainable consumption practices. Globally, we produce 300 million tons of plastic waste every year, and single-use plastics make up a substantial portion of this number (UN study). According to recent estimates less than 5% of all plastics produced are recycled.

Through this petition, I join concerned residents in calling upon the Mayor and the city of San Mateo to commit to minimizing and, in the long term, eliminating the use of single-use plastics across our city and county. We also urge that businesses pushing for environmentally sustainable changes that are in line with public interests receive support and promotion. Locally, we have seen Byrd’s Filling Station’s attempt to create a circular economy, bringing sustainable grocery shopping to San Mateo.

We would like to see consumer education about the environmental footprint of products, packaging, and stores, as well as opportunities to align our purchasing power with local supply. Ultimately, the products we buy and the businesses we support have a significant impact on our local ecosystem and economy. We advocate for practices that are in tune with the pulse of our planet, and will help us preserve our community for generations to come.

Byrd’s of a Feather