A. Single use disposable foodware and packaging (SUDs)--including plates, cutlery, cups, lids, straws, "clamshells" and other containers--is a major contributor to street litter, ocean pollution, marine and other wildlife harm and greenhouse gas emissions.

B. The production, consumption and disposal of SUDs contributes significantly to the depletion of natural resources. Plastics in waterways and oceans break down into smaller pieces that are not biodegradable, and are present in most of the world’s oceans.

C. Among other hazards, plastic debris attracts and concentrates ambient pollutants in seawater and freshwater, which can transfer to fish, other seafood and salt that is eventually sold for human consumption. Certain SUDs, including food contact papers and compostable paperboard containers, can also contain harmful fluorinated chemicals that are linked to serious health conditions.

D. Food and beverage SUDs make up approximately 25% of all waste produced in California. In the Bay Area, food and beverage packaging comprises the majority of street litter, and is a significant contributor to the total amount of waste entering the waste stream.

E. It is in the interest of the health, safety and welfare of all who live, work and do business in the City that the amount of litter on public streets, parks and in other public places be reduced.

F. The City of Berkeley must eliminate solid waste at its source and maximize recycling and composting in accordance with its Zero Waste Goals. Reduction of single-use food and beverage packaging furthers this goal.

G. This Chapter is consistent with the City of Berkeley’s 2009 Climate Action Plan, the County of Alameda Integrated Waste Management Plan, as amended, and the CalRecycle recycling and waste disposal regulations contained in Titles 14 and 27 of the California Code of Regulations. (Ord. 7639-NS § 1 (part), 2019)