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Richmond eyes ban on single-use plastics

RICHMOND (NEWS 1130) – It looks like Richmond is inching closer towards banning single-use plastics in the City, but the Mayor insists nothing is imminent.

The issue was brought by a committee at a meeting on Monday, following a motion to explore the idea from a councilor in February.

Mayor Malcolm Brodie says City staff will report to council with some options for how they could accomplish the lofty goal.

He says they’ll likely study Vancouver’s bylaw, passed last year, which saw the banning of plastic straws and foam take-out containers effective this June.

Related article: Fast food chain expected to ditch plastic straws

“And also looking at what exceptions should be made, what timelines could be introduced, how to educate the people, how to enforce, and how to consult.”

They’ll also study other municipalities in the area.

He says the issue should be back on the council table by the beginning of May.

“I think if you go to the federal level, to the provincial level, to the local level, I think the issue of plastics, and the single-use plastics, and the pollution that is being caused is far more significant than people realize.”

Related article: Teens ask Delta to ban plastic bags

Brodie points to what’s happening in the oceans, along shorelines, and even within cities, where discarded plastic items are often found.

“I think the time has come to take some precautions and take some steps in this regard.”

He would like to see an appropriate program put in place to achieve goals set out by the city to tackle pollution.

Council expects staff to come back with recommendations in May.

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