Ban On Single-Use Plastics Set To Take Effect In Newtown Township

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster):  Beginning on Tuesday, April 9, restaurants, retail and grocery stores in Newtown Township are banned from providing customers with single-use plastic bags for groceries, merchandise purchases and takeout orders.

Under the township’s new single-use plastics ordinance, which takes effect on Tuesday, customers will need to bring a reusable bag or be prepared to purchase a paper or reusable bag at the checkout register for a nominal fee.

In addition, plastic straws and plastic utensils will only be available upon request and Styrofoam food containers will be banned.

The new ordinance, adopted last December by the board of supervisors, applies to retail establishments defined as a location where food or other products are sold to the public. They include supermarkets, convenience stores, delicatessens, department stores, dollar stores, dry-cleaners, clothing stores, restaurants, pharmacy, food truck, farmers market and delivery service.

“This is a good first step for Newtown Township,” said Supervisor Elen Snyder following approval of the ordinance last year. “We have worked very hard for four years on this. I am very proud of the people who have helped put this together. And I think it’s a real feather in our cap.”

The Newtown Township EAC began working on a ban in 2018, but put the work on hold due to the pandemic. Following COVID, the EAC resumed its work and in early 2023 unveiled a draft ordinance for consideration by the board of supervisors.

After holding a series of public meetings and tweaking the ordinance, the board of supervisors in late 2023 approved the single-use plastics ban in a 4-1 vote with board member Kyle Davis voting against the measure.

 Courtesy: www.patch.com