Second in a series

Re “Just What Does Polystyrene Ban Mean?”

After surveying the community, Charles Herbertson concludes that restaurateurs have mixed feelings about the polystyrene ban that becomes effective in November.

“Some restaurants do not have a problem with it,” said the Public Works director.

“Some restaurants already have stopped using that product.

“They are using recyclable material or compostable material, probably because some of them think it is good business. This way it can be taken to a composting facility and turned into compost.

“Other forms are recyclable.”

One of the problems with polystyrene, said Mr. Herbertson, is that “technically it is recyclable. Practically speaking, we are not able to recyclable in large quantities.”

Entrepreneurs have several motivations for making the changeover well ahead of the deadline.

“Some made the decision on their own awhile ago because they thought it was the responsible thing to do,” said Mr. Herbertson.

It is a rockier road for smaller stores.

“There are mom-and-pops that have expressed concern about replacement materials because it will be a financial burden.”

“We have had a lot of discussions (with restaurateurs),” said the Public Works director.

“For close to two years, we have been talking, since it was brought up at (the City Council’s) Sustainability subcommittee meetings.

“That is where the polystyrene ban first was proposed,” Mr. Herbertson said. “Ultimately, it went to the City Council, back to the Sustainability subcommittee for more work, and then back to the Council for directions on the ordinance we now have.”