Single-use plastics ban now in effect for all San Diego businesses
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — After the one-year grace period to comply with the citywide ban on plastic foam containers ended last month, all businesses within the city of San Diego will now have to say goodbye to using single-use Styrofoam products.
The ban officially took effect last year but small businesses making $500,000 or less were automatically given an extra year to comply. Since April 1, all businesses in the city have been required to follow the ordinance.
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According to the city, the ban covers most polystyrene foam containers, coolers, ice chests, pool or beach toys, and other similar items. Other single-use plastic products, like straws and utensils, may only be provided at a customer’s request.
The city has provided informational flyers regarding the ordinance in four different languages including English, Spanish, Tagalog and Vietnamese.
The city says polystyrene foam poses a threat to wildlife because it does not biodegrade and often ends up in streets, waterways, storm drains, and eventually the ocean.
Other cities have already adopted a similar ordinance, including Vista, San Marcos, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Del Mar, Imperial Beach, Solana Beach and Oceanside.
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