This local city is banning non-recyclable to-go containers, single-use plastic utensils
After a three-year pandemic pause, a new Gig Harbor ordinance targeting single-use food serviceware will go into effect on Jan. 12.
This ordinance means Gig Harbor “food service businesses” will not be able to give out non-recyclable to-go containers nor single-use plastic serviceware.
The ordinance encourages businesses to instead provide “plant-based, durable, wood, recyclable” containers, utensils and serviceware wherever possible and only by customer request if they are single-use (like paper straws). Dispensers for single-use products are also encouraged.
Notably, the ordinance also requires that food service providers “must provide conveniently located and clearly marked containers” for customers to recycle. They also must ensure “the collection and delivery of these materials to appropriate processing facilities.”
This section of the new ordinance is worth applauding the city for. The proper disposal of earth-friendly alternatives is crucial to closing the sustainability loop. Not only is this step often missed, it’s also generally confusing to the public who is left picking apart their meal packaging and hoping they choose the right disposal slot (recyclable, compostable, returnable or trash).
The issue is even more evident at materials recovery facilities. These facilities sort single-stream recycling materials to be sold to larger buyers. Technology is changing this process, but these busy facilities often hand pick materials from a maze of conveyor belts in the sorting process.
Ensuring materials are properly sorted, and making that easier for customers, is a huge step in the right direction.
What if a business does not comply?
The ordinance outlines a complaint-based enforcement strategy. For the first two years the ordinance is in effect, a warning will be issued.
During the third and successive years, a written notice will be served, and continued noncompliance may result in issuance of a civil infraction. This phased implementation will ensure all businesses have time to source appropriate supplies.
If a business continues to violate this ordinance, each day of any such violation is a separate civil infraction. This prevents businesses from simply paying the fine and moving on (I’m looking at you, oil industries).
I’m hopeful this also means future opportunities for even more clearly marked recycling containers in public spaces, especially given the city’s well-loved outdoor accessibility and events.
Takeout food tends to travel, especially during the busy summer months. Often, this leads to full trash bins, especially in our city parks. Skansie Brothers Park in peak-summer is a great example of this. The fuller the bin, the more confusing disposal of … well, anything, becomes.
Of course, change takes patience from all parties involved. As we navigate this new ordinance in the new year, it’s important to recognize the adjustment period – for restaurants and our own food orders. It’s a new step, but an important one toward sustainability in our city.
To read the full ordinance, visit: https://gigharbor.municipal.codes/GHMC/5.15
Carly Vester has been writing an environmental column for The Peninsula Gateway since 2019. Her storytelling focuses on the intersection of people and the outdoors — from adventures across the west, to our environment and the rich history surrounding it. Her documentary films have screened internationally and her writing has been published locally and regionally.