FOCUS: Plastic straws, bags, clamshells, more to go away in Charleston

Staff reports  | New single-use plastic regulations that eliminate the use of single-use plastic carryout and merchandise bags, as well as some plastic carryout and food packaging items, start Jan. 1 in the city of Charleston.  

The new requirements were enacted to maintain cleaner streets and waterways and preserve the beauty and livability of the Charleston area for generations to come, the city of Charleston said.

Among the items that no longer will be allowed are:

• Polystyrene (also known as plastic foam or StyrofoamTM) and other non-recyclable and non-compostable food service ware, carryout containers and food packaging materials such as bowls, boxes, clamshells, cups, plates, stirrers and straws.
• The selling or renting of polystyrene bowls, cups, plates, coolers, containers, ice chests, shipping boxes and packing material.

According to a press release, the new guidelines apply to all commercial and nonprofit operations including: concession/event vendors and food trucks, farmers markets/stands and takeout stands, schools and government, grocery and liquor stores, restaurants and bars and retail stores.

Establishments will be able to choose from affordable alternatives and certain specialty items will still be allowed such as reusable bags and recyclable paper bags, recyclable or compostable disposable food containers and service ware including: aluminum, cardboard, glass, paper and recyclable plastics.

The following specialty items are not restricted: bags for bulk grocery items, bags for raw, frozen or prepared foods, bread bags, condiment packages, cutlery, deli bags, dry cleaning/garment bags, egg cartons, floral/plant wrapping, garbage bags, meat trays, newspaper bags, pet waste bags, plastic drink or soup container lids, produce bags and straws for use by customers with disabilities.

• More information is available online at www.charleston-sc.gov/plastic.
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