Styrofoam cups and takeout containers will be banned in Vancouver starting today

While there has been plenty of talk about banning single use plastics all over the world, Vancouver is stepping out front by getting rid of foam cups and take-out containers as of Jan. 1.

While there are no such plans in the works in the Kamloops or Okanagan regions, there has been plenty of talk about similar bans and many food outlets are opting for more environmentally friendly options.

In May, the Regional District of the North Okanagan called for a ban of single-use plastic bags by the end of the year but backed down later in light of a court case that killed a similar bylaw in Victoria.

But Vancouver is going ahead with the first stage of its ban as of New Year’s Day just with foam cups and take out containers.

That will be expanded April 22 with a ban on plastic and compostable straws (except for people with disabilities) and plastic utensils will be available only on request.

By Jan. 1, 2021, there will be a 25¢ fee for disposable cups, a ban on plastic and compostable plastic shopping bags while paper bags will cost 15¢ and reusable bags will cost $1.

Last summer, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said he would ban single use plastics as early as 2021.

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