Recently, the San Diego City Council tentatively approved banning the use of polystyrene foam products, made of a material commonly known as Styrofoam, and often found in objects like take-out Boxes and egg cartons.
The ban would also extend to the sale and use of items like beach and pool toys, ice chests, coolers, and navigational aids that are made, or partially made, of the material. As part of the effort, and to help the community, San Diego’s Environmental Services Department would prepare a list of affordable and safe alternatives to Styrofoam.
Georgette Gomez, a city councilwoman, proposed an amendment to the initial measure that would give small businesses that earn less than $500,000 per year an additional 12 months to comply with the ordinance. The amendment was approved.
Gomez said that placing a ban on Styrofoam and other similar products is good for the environment, but businesses also have to be given a chance to come to terms with the changes the ban would require, if it is approved permanently.
Polystyrene does not break down as natural products do, and can take centuries to degrade, harming the environment and the animals and fish that eat them by mistake. Officials dealing with issues like this might use flyer printing to keep residents informed.
A final vote still needs to be made before the ordinance becomes law.
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