Taking Action on the Climate – Part 7 (Styrofoam)

March 27, 2010

Andrea Koskey of the SF Examiner is tracking the styrofoam issue and reports today that

An attempt to ban Styrofoam products throughout San Mateo County is in the works as cities continue to tackle the issue on their own in an effort to end environmental pollution.

Dean Peterson, San Mateo County’s director of environmental health, said a draft ordinance that would require businesses to discontinue using polystyrene-based products, or Styrofoam — often used for food storage or takeout — will go before the Board of Supervisors Environmental Quality Committee next month for discussion.

That action would affect the unincorporated parts of the County

Peterson said if successful, county officials would then approach cities to encourage adoption of a similar ordinance. Businesses that do not conform could face up to $500 fines for repeated offenses, according to the draft ordinance.

There are an estimated 200 businesses that would be affected in unincorporated San Mateo County. There are 3,500 food-related businesses in the county.

Three cities in San Mateo County — South San Francisco, Millbrae and Pacifica — already have bans in place.

I like the recyclable containers that Roti uses. They look a bit like styrofoam but feel more like cardboard and have the recycling symbol on them. They also hold up well to palak paneer. I don't know if they are cost competitive with styrofoam.

Posted in Climate

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