Plastic foam ban in effect in San Mateo Co.

Wednesday, July 02, 2008 | 10:53 AM

Bay City News

SAN MATEO, CA -- Beginning today, San Mateo County departments will no longer be allowed to use plastic foam cups thanks to the Board of Supervisors who adopted an ordinance in February banning the material in an effort to protect the environment.

The ordinance requires county departments to use only biodegradable, compostable, reusable or recyclable plastic food service ware.

Plates, cups and other food service ware made of polystyrene are environmental pollutants because they cannot be recycled or reused, according to the ordinance.

Story continues below

The Board adopted the ordinance in order to lead the way in preserving the environment and the health of citizens.

All food service providers for the county will be required to adhere to the ordinance.