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This article discusses a Plastic Pollution Awareness and Prevention Program implemented by Ohio Sea Grant and the Boardwalk Family of Restaurants (BFR) on South Bass Island, Ohio. The program aimed to reduce single-use plastic straw use in the restaurants and raise awareness about the negative effects of plastic pollution. Through staff trainings, beach cleanups, and menu messaging, the program successfully led to behavior changes among staff and customers, resulting in reduced plastic straw use. The focus group feedback indicated positive customer response to the program, and staff suggested strategies for other restaurants looking to reduce single-use plastics. The article emphasizes the importance of localizing marine debris information to help people understand the impact of their actions on the community and water quality. [Extracted from the article]

Society's use of plastic is increasing, while the ability to properly manage plastic waste is decreasing. In response, improved waste management systems and the adoption of reusable products made from sustainable materials are needed. Municipal governments in the United States are beginning to institute policies reducing unlimited free access to plastic products such as bags, straws, and Styrofoam. However, some state governments in the Great Lakes region, and elsewhere, have responded by making these pro‐environmental policies illegal. Such policies shift the onus of using less plastic to local businesses and conscious consumers. In response, this project sought to determine the effectiveness of a plastic bag ban, supported by targeted education and outreach, at several local businesses in northeast Ohio. Results suggest that the initial implementation and non‐enforcement phase of the bag ban did not lead to a reduction in the use of plastic bags. However, survey respondents indicate they are supportive of policies reducing accessibility and unlimited availability of plastic bags. Results further show most people have access to their own reusable bags and support businesses who charge for, or no longer offer, plastic bags. In conclusion, voluntary reduction of bag use by customers is not effective and store policies or legislation is needed to reduce the use of plastic bags. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]