We thank Erik Fuller for the letter to the editor on July 8, urging the county of San Mateo to reduce single-use plastic takeout containers. We agree: conventional petroleum-based plastic foodware poses an environmental challenge. It contributes to litter, has a low recycling rate, and raises concerns about microplastics. Compostable plastic presents its own challenge: it is rejected by composters because it does not fully break down and is difficult to distinguish from conventional plastic. Â Â
This is why, in 2020, the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors passed the Disposable Food Service Ware Ordinance. It prohibits food facilities from using plastic foodware — conventional or compostable. Instead, it requires mostly natural fiber alternatives like paper and sugarcane. The ordinance applies in unincorporated county and the 16 cities where it has since been adopted. To date, we have provided outreach to over 4,500 facilities and technical assistance to over 500. Â
Beyond single-use, we are promoting reusable foodware as the ideal long-term solution, having distributed $40,000 in mini-grants and provided technical assistance to over 150 food facilities to make the switch.
Transitioning a food service industry takes time and effort. Some businesses have made the switch; others are still working on it, and we remain committed to supporting them. If community members spot a food facility that needs help, they may submit a request for assistance (smcsustainability.org/waste-reduction/food-service-ware-ordinance/resources-for-the-public).
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We value community engagement on these issues and continue to refine our approach as policies and best practices for sustainable foodware evolve. Â
Rosalynn Gallo
Redwood City
Rosalynn is the acting communications officer, San Mateo County Sustainability Department.
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Keep the discussion civilized. Absolutely NO personal attacks or insults directed toward writers, nor others who make comments.
Keep it clean. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, racist or sexually-oriented language.
Don't threaten. Threats of harming another person will not be tolerated.
Be truthful. Don't knowingly lie about anyone or anything.
Be proactive. Use the 'Report' link on each comment to let us know of abusive posts.
PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK.
Anyone violating these rules will be issued a warning. After the warning, comment privileges can be revoked.