Connecticut Law Wants to Phase Out Single Use Plastic Utensils

A new law for Westchester County, Conn. aims to prevent single use plastic waste by reducing the quantity of plastic silverware distributed.

The new law stops restaurants from giving customers plastic utensils automatically. Going forward, customers will need to ask for these single use plastics as the county tries to prevent small plastic items from entering the waste stream.

Previously, some establishments have resorted to this with plastic straws to help reduce single use plastic waste and it looks like forks, knives, and spoons are next.

“Under this new law beginning in September, food service establishments in Westchester County are no longer able to provide single-use plastic food ware or condiment packets unless specifically requested by a customer,” he said.

This law covers customers who are eating in, taking out, and ordering online delivery. It covers forks, knives, spoons, chopsticks, plastic lids, and coffee stirrers.

Fines may be imposed on violators after six months under the new law.

The law does not affect hospitals nor healthcare facilities as they will be exempt.

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