Livermore workshop previews reusable‑foodware rules, cites business savings and large waste reductions

City of Livermore recycling staff convened a public workshop to gather feedback on a proposed reusable‑foodware policy package that would require reusable dishes for on‑site dining, require acceptance of clean BYO containers, and encourage defaulting to accessories only on request.

Anna Zamponga, the city’s recycling specialist, opened the session and said the workshop is meant to help shape programs and policies to “promote reuse for our local businesses [and] prevent litter in our community.” She told attendees the city is collecting feedback through a survey that closes Sept. 30 and expects to present recommended policies to the Livermore City Council in the spring.

Justin Lehrer, operations manager at StopWaste, described why the agency and the city are focusing on disposable foodware, saying much single‑use packaging is effectively nonrecyclable in practice because sorting facilities and end markets cannot handle small, food‑contaminated items. “There are a number of issues — they range from litter to challenges with collection and sorting,” Lehrer said, noting that contamination can also lead to violations of state and county recycling…