San Francisco bans single-use plastics including straws and food accessories

San Francisco is taking a bold step in the fight against plastic pollution with a new ordinance aimed at banning single-use plastics, particularly plastic straws, in the city. During a recent government meeting, city leaders expressed their excitement about the legislation, which is designed to address the pervasive issue of plastic waste that threatens marine life and public health.

The ordinance, spearheaded by Supervisor Tang, prohibits the sale and use of single-use foodware made with fluorinated chemicals and mandates that many drink accessories, such as straws and stirrers, be plastic-free. It also requires that single-use food accessories be provided only upon customer request or at self-service stations. This legislation is part of a broader global movement, with cities like Seattle and Vancouver already implementing similar bans.

Supervisor Safaie highlighted the cultural shift this ordinance aims to create, noting that it encourages restaurants and bars to change their practices regarding straws, which are often automatically provided. The goal is to reduce the environmental impact of these items, which are frequently found in coastal cleanups and are notoriously difficult to recycle.

The ordinance includes specific provisions to ensure that individuals with medical needs can still access plastic straws, addressing concerns about accessibility. Additionally, it sets a timeline for implementation, with the ban on plastic straws and beverage accessories taking effect on July 1, 2019, and further regulations on compostable foodware and recycled content to follow in 2020.

As San Francisco moves forward with this initiative, city officials are optimistic about its potential to inspire change and promote a more sustainable dining experience. The Department of Environment is committed to educating businesses and residents about the new regulations, ensuring a smooth transition to a plastic-free future.