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CECC. Circular Economy & Clean Communities / CECC-4.1. Changes to the Waste Stream /

CECC-4.1aApprove and implement the Polystyrene Foam and Single Use Plastics Ordinance.

Image: EcoWatch

Progress

On time
  • Not started
  • Planning
  • In progress
  • Implementation
  • Completed

Official description

Approve and implement the Polystyrene Foam and Single Use Plastics Ordinance, pending Environmental Impact Report
(Full action name in the CAP)

From Environmental Services website:

Polystyrene foam products are typically used one time before being discarded, and due to their light weight can easily become litter. Polystyrene foam litter breaks down into small pieces which do not biodegrade and often end up in streets, canyons, waterways, storm drains, and eventually the ocean, where it harms wildlife that mistakenly ingests it. 

Plastic straws are a significant contributor to marine pollution and are among the most common forms of litter collected on California beaches. They are not accepted in local recycling programs. 

The Single Use Plastic Reduction Ordinance will help San Diego reach its Zero Waste goals and help maintain clean and beautiful beaches and public spaces. The Ordinance will also meet the objectives of the City’s Climate Action Plan.

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Interdependent actions

Foundational
Completed
CECC-4.1a. Approve and implement the Polystyrene Foam and Single Use Plastics Ordinance.
Next
Planning
CECC-4.1b. Expand the Polystyrene Foam and Single Use Plastics Ordinance to phase out Single-Use materials and prioritize reuse rat…

Timeline

→ 4/2023

Lead department

Measure

  • Council Prioritization Score

    45.54

Action Timing

Reduce GHG Emissions

Community Identified Action

  • Feasibility score

    8.2(1-10)

  • Equity score

    1(1-10)
Information updated 06/25/2024