Seattle Bans Use of Plastic Straws, Utensils and Cocktail Picks in Foodservice Establishments

Starting on July 1, the city of Seattle’s ban on plastic straws, utensils and cocktail picks in foodservice establishments went into effect. Instead of the plastic items, foodservice establishments must use another option such as compostable paper or compostable plastic or else potentially face a fine of $250.

Some cities in states like California and New York have or are also considering similar bans.

CNBC.com has more:

A ban on the use of plastic straws, utensils and cocktail picks came into force in Seattle on Sunday.

The move makes Seattle the first major city in the U.S. to enact such a ban, it is believed.

Under the directive, food service businesses in the city will have to provide customers with “compliant options,” such as straws made from compostable paper or compostable plastic, according to Seattle Public Utilities (SPU). If businesses do not comply with the new rules, they could face a fine of $250.

Read the full story here.