SAN DIEGO – Styrofoam containers will no longer be allowed in San Diego starting next year.
The San Diego City Council voted 5-3 Tuesday night to ban styrofoam products in the city in a move aimed at protecting the environment.
Supporters of the idea say cutting down on styrofoam waste would benefit the health of marine life and reduce carcinogens in seafood.
However, business owners said they would be forced to go out of business if they had to buy alternative containers. One business owner said moving from styrofoam cups to another material could cost 37 cents more per cup, and would eat into profits.
The ordinance allowed for hardship waivers to be issued on a case-by-case basis for restaurants and other businesses who have trouble affording the change. Some businesses could apply for waivers if they had existing contracts with styrofoam companies to honor the agreement.
The ordinance will take effect in January.
