NORTH WILDWOOD – The City Council plans to require contractors to contain construction debris, including plastic sawdust from vinyl fencing and other types of dust, debris or contamination.
The council has introduced an ordinance that says that a contractor must operate in such as way as to minimize the impact of airborne particles “to the greatest extent possible,” particles originating from cutting or sanding of construction materials, including wood, fiberglass, plastics, microplastics and their derivatives.
The ordinance requires the use of tools, to the extent they are available, that reduce noise, dust and pollution, or are equipped with attachments that capture dust and debris.
In addition, the ordinance requires contractors to place a tarp under the cutting area, which is to be on the street side, ground level of the property. Wherever possible, the materials are to be cut in an enclosed or partially enclosed space on the first floor, and the pieces cut and carried to the place where they are installed.
All the dust and debris must be collected and, minimally, once a day be placed into a dumpster that is securely covered.
“Contractors are strictly prohibited from blowing debris, dust or plastic contaminants into streets and/or storm drains,” the ordinance reads.
North Wildwood Mayor Patrick Rosenello was not immediately available for comment, but other municipalities have been addressing the issue of plastic sawdust and microplastics.
Avalon and Cape May earlier this year adopted measures aimed at plastics and microplastics pollution at construction sites.
Last year, Monmouth Beach passed a first-in-the-nation ordinance requiring contractors to contain and dispose of sawdust from Trex, PVC piping and vinyl siding.
Plastic sawdust and other airborne particles can create health problems for people and are toxic to sea life.
Upper Township Mayor Curtis Corson raised the topic not long ago at a meeting of his governing body, handing out pictures he took in another community showing plastic dust in the street.
Corson said, when reached by telephone on Aug. 15, that Upper Township has not created its own ordinance, but was hoping the state would address the matter in its uniform construction code.
He said he was happy to see other municipalities addressing the issue, however, saying microplastics will definitely be a problem for the environment.
Contact the reporter, Christopher South, at csouth@cmcherlad.com or call 609-886-8600, ext. 128.
