San Clemente Foam Ban Defended

In 2004 the City of San Clemente, CA adopted an ordinance to ban the use of EPS foam foodware at any facility operating on City property or under a city contract, and the ordinance was expanded to include all retail food facilities in 2011. This ordinance has helped to prevent thousands of pieces of foam from littering this coastal town and nearby beaches. But at a recent city council meeting, councilmembers considered limiting the ordinance and providing exemptions for certain businesses. Thankfully, the South Orange County chapter acted fast and - by working with the City's staff and providing testimony at the hearing - the council voted 3-2 not to amend and limit the existing ordinance. This victory ensures that residents and visitors in San Clemente can continue to enjoy this coastal town's iconic beaches without plastic foam littering the shoreline.