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Plastic Foam Ban Begins
The City of Seattle has banned the use of expanded polystyrene (EPS, sometimes called “Styrofoam”) food service containers and cups in all restaurants.
When does the ban take effect?
January 1, 2009
What are typical products made out of EPS?
"Clamshells," bowls, plates, and beverage cups are typical products.
What should my business do?
You must stop using EPS food service products, effective January 1, 2009.
You may change to any alternative products to foam on Januray 1, 2009, but the City recommends switching to compostable materials. You must change to recyclable plastic or compostable food service products, including lids and utensils, by July 1, 2010.
Why switch to compostable products?
In addition to the negative environmental impacts of EPS, Seattle wants to compost as much food waste as possible. Compostable products allow easy one-step disposal of food waste and service ware into your compost bin.
Where can I find substitute products?
You will find information and compostable alternatives wherever you buy food service products. If you choose to compost, you must use products that are approved compostable by the City of Seattle and Cedar Grove Composting.
Related Links:
July 1, 2010 Food Packaging Requirements
Order FREE Customer Area Food+ Compostables, Recycling, and Garbage Posters
Resource Venture page on the original Foam Ban and Green Fee proposal
Resources:
Foam Ban Flyer (PDF) - with Chinese, Korean, Somali, Spanish, Tagalog and Vietnamese translations
Northwest Vietnamese News Weekly Article (PDF)
