Banning retailers from selling foam foodware, coolers, packaging and requiring compostable or recyclable foodware (Richmond Non-Recyclable Food Ware Ordinance), 2010
Richmond, CA
HOW IT CAN BENEFIT YOU
Styrene in foam foodware can leach into food and drink and can cause cancer in humans. And polystyrene foam breaks down into smaller, nonbiodegradable pieces that are eaten by animals, which can harm or kill them.
So Richmond’s Food Ware Ordinance requires food providers to use to-go ware that's compostable or recyclable.
WHY IT'S A LEADING PROGRAM
It is different from similar laws because it also prohibits retailers from selling polystyrene foam foodware, coolers, packing peanuts and other packaging.
GOAL
To protect the health of humans and animals, and reduce litter.
WHO CAN TAKE ACTION
All retailers and food providers.
PUBLIC OUTREACH & EDUCATION
The City:
- Held community meetings with businesses for one year before the ordinance was put into effect.
- Mailed outreach to businesses.
- Provided personalized assistance to over 25% of food providers as of 2011.
BUDGET TO COORDINATE THE PROGRAM
Businesses that do not comply get a warning letter. If they get a citation, they will have to pay $250 for the first fine, $500 for the second, and $1,000 for third or more violations.
LEGAL ISSUES
Instead of allowing businesses to apply for an exemption, the City extended the effective date of the ordinance to allow more time for food providers to financially adjust.
CONTACT
Adam Lenz, Environmental Manager, City of Richmond, 510-620-5537, adam_lenz@ci.richmond.ca.us
LAST UPDATED
September 19, 2015