Res13 15248 - Laserfiche WebLink

Browse Search

03/11/2013 degradable or compostable additives: This alternative was rejected from consideration because the environmental impacts associated with using biodegradable and compostable additives are uncertain at this time. Researchers at California State University Chico Research Foundation tested the degradation of biodegradable bags in composting conditions, and found that they did not degrade (CIWMB 2007; Green Cities California MEA, 2010). Furthermore, these bags reduce the quality of recycled plastics when introduced into the recycling stream and so must be kept separate to avoid contaminating the recycling stream (CIWMB 2007; Green Cities California MEA, 2010). Therefore, it is unclear what environmental impacts may be associated with switching to plastic bags made with biodegradable additives or water-soluble bags. In addition, this alternative would not achieve the objectives of reducing the amount of single-use plastic bags in trash loads (e.g., landfills), in conformance with the trash load reduction requirements of the NPDES Municipal Regional Permit, promoting a shift toward the use of reusable carryout bags by retail customers, and avoiding litter and the associated adverse impacts to stormwater systems, aesthetics and the marine environment (San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean). • Ban the use of single-use plastic carryout bags by retailers (except restaurants) and apply the ban to "doggie waste cleanup" bags at public parks: While plastic"doggie waste cleanup" bags may have certain impacts to the environment, it is assumed that these types of bags represent only a very small percentage of total plastic bag use. In contrast, the use of these types of bags promote the proper disposal of solid waste and benefit water quality in reducing sources of stormwater pollution. Thus, while this alternative would further reduce the overall number of plastic bags produced and used, it would not promote a shift toward the use of reusable carryout bags by retail customers in the Study Area and could potentially increase impacts to stormwater systems. Environmental impacts related to plastic "doggie waste cleanup" bag use in the Study Area are outside the scope and objectives of the Proposed Ordinance. • Implement an action targeting litter from homeless encampments near water bodies: This alternative would not achieve the objectives of � reducing the amount of single-use plastic bags in trash loads (e.g., landfills); in conformance with the trash load reduction requirements of the NPDES Municipal Regional Permit and promoting a shift toward the use of reusable carryout bags by retail customers. • Require retailers to offer incentives for customers to use reusable bags (such as paying customers) rather than banning single-use bags: While this alternative may deter some customers from using single- 12 RESO.#1524MUFF#304