Welcome to DU! The truly grassroots left-of-center political community where regular people, not algorithms, drive the discussions and set the standards. Join the community: Create a free account Support DU (and get rid of ads!): Become a Star Member All Forums Issue Forums Culture Forums Alliance Forums Region Forums Support Forums Help & Search

Eugene

(61,595 posts)
Mon Nov 25, 2013, 10:05 PM Nov 2013

NYC Foam Food Container Ban Plan Gets Hearing

Source: Associated Press

NYC Foam Food Container Ban Plan Gets Hearing

NEW YORK November 25, 2013 (AP)
By JENNIFER PELTZ Associated Press

A potential ban on plastic foam food containers in a city that thrives on takeout proved a piping-hot topic among lawmakers Monday, as they debated the material's pros, cons and prospects for recycling.

An environmental bane to some, a food-service staple to others, the familiar foam to-go cups, plates and cartons already are prohibited in San Francisco and dozens of other U.S. cities and could be on their way out in New York.

The City Council is weighing competing proposals, including a measure that would outlaw the containers after a year's inquiry to see whether the tons of containers could be effectively recycled instead — a possibility ban backers and opponents vehemently dispute. The city's plastics recycler says it's not workable right now.

[font size=1]-snip-[/font]

There's no date yet for a council vote, but the hearing marked an effort to move the issue forward before the year ends. Environmentally minded Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who proposed banning the containers in February and backs the council proposal, leaves office at the end of the year. Mayor-elect Bill de Blasio said Monday he also supports it.

[font size=1]-snip-[/font]

Read more: http://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/nyc-foam-food-container-ban-plan-hearing-21007595

Latest Discussions»Issue Forums»Environment & Energy»NYC Foam Food Container B...