WAR has been declared on single-use plastics in another city, further changing how customers receive their takeout.
The law first came about in July, and it will affect over 1,300 grocery stores.
War has been declared on single-use plastics in another state, further changing how customers receive their takeout[/caption]
Stamford, Connecticut has become the latest state or city in the US to go to war against single-use plastics used by food vendors and restaurants.
From July 1, twelve states agreed to hand out daily $50 fines until expanded polystyrene use, known as Styrofoam, was ended.
Environmentalists argued that Styrofoam was damaging to wildlife, and it takes 500 years to decompose.
Now, Stamford has voted to implement new rules regarding single-use plastics.
All dine-in restaurants and grocery stores in the city must use reusable foodware containers from now on.
The new rules will come into effect in nine months time.
Rep. Karen Camporeale, D-18, commented: “I have to constantly change my business model to accommodate environmental laws that affect my business.
“I don’t have a choice in it. I have to change. I think we all have to change.”
But Rep. Bonnie Kim Campbell, D-5, warned that the change will take people surprise: “There are several small business owners in my district that are not prepared [for the change].”
But, businesses can still provide single-use foodware containers to customers if they request them.
There will also not be any financial penalties imposed on the business if the customer chooses this option.
The rules prohibit the use of plastic-lined foodware containers at dine-in restaurants and grocery stores.
This includes things like plastic-lined paper cups, plates, and bowls, and plastic foodware that is black in color is also banned.
TAKEOUT RULES
Takeout orders are to be packaged in biodegradable containers but cannot be offered in plastic-lined ones.
I think we all have to change
Rep. Karen Camporeale
Single-use foodware can only be made of plastic if it is containing soup or other liquids.
Accessories like napkins and straws can only be provided when a customer asks for them, and they have to be biodegradable.
Plastic accessories can only be given out in specific medal instances, but no proof of the disability is required.
TIMELINE
Businesses have 36 months to use plastic containers, cups, lids and trays.
Stamford Public Schools has up to 10 years to start using reusable foodware.
In the meantime, the use of single-use foodware “shall be minimized to the greatest extent practicable,” according to the ordinance.
Schools will aim to use foodware that can be put into a washing machine.
Camporeale wants city grants to support this transition.
The first violation of the new rules will mean a written notice, and subsequent violations will result in a $250 fine.
Each day a violation continues will be considered a separate offense.
Stamford, Connecticut has become the latest state or city in the US to go to war against single-use plastics used by food vendors and restaurants[/caption]
