Our Mission
To reduce and eventually eliminate the use of Single-Use Plastic (SUP) bags in all stores, restaurants, and businesses in Berks County by 2027.
Goals
Why is this Important?
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Plastics are mostly made from fossil fuels, in an energy-intensive process that emits greenhouse gases and often creates hazardous chemicals.
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Approximately 87% of plastic bags, sacks, and wraps are never recycled.
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The U.S. contributes 5x the global average for plastic waste generation per person.
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Recent restrictions on waste imports at countries that typically accepted plastic waste is stressing the U.S. "recycling system" that is already struggling.
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By 2050, it is estimated that there will be more plastic than fish in the sea.
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Studies show links between microplastics and increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and death; and potential links to reproductive problems, certain cancers, and gut health issues.
(Find additional details here.)
1 / Wyomissing Borough Council Presentation
What'SUP Berks representatives presented the case for a municipal bag ban at the October Wyomissing Borough Council Meeting with backing from the Wyomissing Refuse and Recycling Committee. Several members of the community attended the meeting to show support for the initiative..
2 / Penn State EAPAC Project Underway
What'SUP Berks enlisted Penn State Berks Environmental Awareness and Community Action Project (EACAP) students to educate local businesses and community groups about the problem of SUP bags and to solicit public endorsements of support. This project is expected to be completed for presentation at the Penn State Sustainability Expo on Dec 1.
3 / Youth Member Collaboration on State Bill
Youth members of What'SUP Berks proposed a draft SUP Bag Ban bill to State Senator Judy Schwann, who graciously agreed to become the primary sponsor.
4 / Berks County Television Hot Topic
What'SUP Berks representatives made the case for Single-Use Plastic Bag Ban on BCTV League of Women Voters Presents Hot Topics in November 2025.
What'SUP Berks enlisted Penn State Berks Environmental Awareness and Community Action Project (EACAP) students to educate local businesses and community groups about the problem of SUP bags and to solicit public endorsements of support. This project is expected to be completed for presentation at the Penn State Sustainability Expo.
3 / Youth Member Collaboration on State Bill
Youth members of What'SUP Berks proposed a draft SUP Bag Ban bill to State Senator Judy Schwann, who graciously agreed to become the primary sponsor.