SACRAMENTO Calif. Legislation introduced in California on Friday would ban the use of polystyrene foam and non-recyclable disposable foodservice containers by restaurant operators and retail food vendors statewide.
Assembly Bill 1358, introduced by Reps. Jerry Hill, D-San Mateo, and Petro Nava, D-Santa Barbara, would authorize the use of compostable containers in cities where organic waste is collected, as well as recyclable plastic or paper products made from post-consumer recycled material.
More than 30 cities and counties in California have passed some form of a ban on the use of polystyrene foam takeout containers. Environmental groups argue that polystyrene foam is one of the leading sources of marine pollution and debris along California’s beaches.
As introduced, the state legislation would leave local ordinances intact.
Restaurant operators across the state oppose a statewide mandate, saying that alternative environmentally friendly options for foodservice ware are significantly more expensive. Many argue that passing the cost on to consumers is not an option at a time when guests are particularly price-sensitive.
Contact Lisa Jennings at [email protected].