Re polystyrene

[Denis Kalthofer]

Hello All,

Please call or email your city councilors to pass the polystyrene ban.

As you probably know, polystyrene (styrofoam) does not biodegrade, it is made from oil, it emits greenhouse gases, it pollutes waterways, and it is eaten by animals.

Please remind Caraviello and Scarpelli that the ordinance would allow for deferments for supply issues.

Their main argument is about supply chain issues with alternatives and how this would hurt restaurants.

So far, the bans in many other cities, including Somerville and Arlington have not harmed restaurants.

Also the ordinance would give them more than enough time to transition to alternatives.

The other issue they brought up is the "additional expense of enforcement".

The same BOH inspections for food safety can easily check for polystyrene, as already stated.

Besides, it is also up to consumers like ourselves to be aware of the ban when it goes into effect and let restaurants know when they are violating it.

Thanks,

Denis