Single-Use Plastic Essentially Banned in Portland
Customers can still request plastic utensils, stirrers, straws or condiments.
Oct 02, 2019
PORTLAND, Ore.—Starting this month, retailers, restaurants and other businesses within the city limits of Portland can’t hand out single-use plastic items unless a customer specifically requests the item, KOIN-TV reports.
“We are committed to working with Portlanders to set priorities for climate action and waste reduction plays a role in that,” said Andrea Durbin, director of Portland’s Bureau of Planning and Sustainability. She said the ordinance will curb plastic litter, as well as the energy and resources used to make such items.
The new policy encompasses plastic used in individually packaged condiments, stirrers, straws and utensils. Bars, caterers, coffeeshops, food carts, grocery stores, hotels and restaurants are impacted by the ban, which the city council approved in December. Businesses in violation face a $500 fine.
“Because of the fine, businesses are motivated to make a change,” said Colin Herring at Phat Cart Cafe in downtown Portland. “I think we’re more worried about customer response. If we’re the first person to let customers know something has changed, then we’re the person who gets the complaint.”
The ban did include exceptions for programs that run free or reduced-price meals, such as schools and Meals on Wheels, as well as counter service establishments. Those with disabilities can still access plastic straws.
Early this past summer, Canada announced its war on plastic to reduce waste and consumption, with a measure in place to ban bags, cutlery, stirring sticks and straws by 2021.
Compliance and regulations Compliance and regulations
