Gone the way of the Dodo – expanded polystyrene cups and containers are now a thing of the past in Somerville.

By Jim Clark

The city’s restaurants and other food-related establishments have recently been updated regarding the ban on expanded polystyrene – popularly referred to as Styrofoam – that has gone into effect. The city has sent out specific information about alternative methods of packaging to-go foods and drinks, as well as outlining the penalties that would be incurred by violating the new regulations.

The foam containers are no longer permitted to be used by restaurants, food trucks, delis and other food-based businesses operating in the city. The regulations apply to carry-out containers, plates and cups that once were freely used in the take out food industries.

Substances such as biodegradable plastics, aluminum, cardboard, plastic and compostable materials are being touted as viable alternatives to the foam-based delivery options. Business owners have been advised to check with their suppliers to see what alternatives may best work for them. It has been reported that many of the affected businesses have already made the transition away from the foam-based products and are considered to be in compliance with the mandated regulations.

Inspectional Services (ISD) will begin inspecting the facilities of the affected businesses for the use of prohibited foam food containers beginning Oct. 1, and will conduct such inspections throughout pre-operational inspections, routine inspections and during food license renewals.

A first violation of the foam ban will result in a warning, a second violation will result in a $100 fine, and third and subsequent violations will result in a $300 fine.

The Board of Aldermen unanimously passed the polystyrene ban ordinance in May 2013 prohibiting Somerville restaurants and food establishments from using polystyrene, which is not biodegradable or easily recyclable and contains an ingredient on the U.S. Department of Health’s list of carcinogens.

Ward 6 Alderman Rebekah Gewirtz, chairwoman of the Board of Aldermen’s Legislative Matters subcommittee commented on the matter, saying, “The Board of Aldermen passed this ordinance last year because of the impact expanded polystyrene has on our personal health and the health of the environment. Our local businesses have been great partners with the city in reducing our impact on the environment, increasing our recycling and making Somerville a healthier city for all, and I know they will partner with us on this initiative too to rid our city of polystyrene.”

City Director of Sustainability and Environment Oliver Sellers-Garcia has said, “The City of Somerville is sharing in the commitment to reduce foam use—this year, Somerville Public Schools stopped using expanded polystyrene trays to serve meals. We look forward to working with our local businesses and encourage them to reach out with any questions they may have, so they can transition to other materials for their business.”

For more information about the foam ban and the fee schedule for violations in Somerville, please visit www.somervillema.gov/styrofoam, call 311 or contact the Office of Sustainability and Environment at 617-625-6600 ext. 5070. Questions regarding enforcement of this ordinance or other Board of Health regulations should be directed to the ISD Health Division at (617) 625-6600, ext. 4331. All information online is available in English, Spanish, Portuguese, Haitian Creole and Mandarin Chinese.

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The city will host a Styrofoam Recycling Day on Saturday, Sept. 13 from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. at the Department of Public Works, located at 1 Franey Rd. Businesses and residents are welcome to bring any unused or clean foam containers and packaging materials for recycling.