SAN DIEGO (KGTV) - The City of San Diego is rolling out the second phase of the polystyrene foam and single-use plastics ordinance as the Memorial Day weekend kicks off.
Starting May 24, a ban on the sale and distribution of egg cartons, food service ware and food trays made from polystyrene foam begins.
The ban includes bowls, plates, trays, cups, lids and other similar items designed for single-use.
According to the city, polystyrene foam doesn’t biodegrade and can be mistaken for food by marine life and other animals.
Acceptable alternatives include recyclable plastic, aluminum and recyclable paper products, the city says.
Some businesses that make less than $500,000 are exempt until 2020.
“The City’s goal is to achieve zero waste by 2040,” said the City’s Environmental Services Department Director, Mario X. Sierra. “This ordinance not only helps in achieving that goal, but also improves water quality, reduces pollution and keeps our environment healthy.”
