December 20th, 2023, marks a significant shift in BC’s dining landscape, as restaurants and cafes being to adapt to stricter single-use plastic regulations.
The province’s latest Single-Use and Plastic Waste Prevention Regulation measures are set to further reduce plastic waste.
It will be affecting everything from your morning coffee to your sushi dining experience to even drink umbrellas.
And no – paper straws are not going away…
Changes to Expect in Your Dining Experience
Under the new Single-Use and Plastic Waste Prevention Regulation, BC establishments will no longer automatically provide single-use plastic items like utensils and drink accessories.
For example, sushi grass.
Yup that simple decorative divider typically found in Japanese cuisine, will no longer accompany your sushi unless specifically requested.
But that’s not all…
What’s Prohibited and What’s Available by Request
According to detailed guidelines published available to businesses and consumers, items such as wooden utensils, drink cup lids, and straws will be supplied ONLY if asked for by the customer.
Additionally, condiments, napkins, and wet wipes are to follow the same request-based distribution.
However, certain exemptions apply.
Such as lids for drinks purchased at drive-through windows or for delivery and pick-up orders. These remain readily available to cater to the needs of the on-the-go consumer.
What’s The Impact on Businesses and Consumer Habits?
These regulations require a new level of awareness and record-keeping for certain food service providers.
Establishments are required to stop offering packets of single-use items bundled together and must keep accurate records of the distribution of these accessories, particularly for online food-delivery platforms.
And of course there will be some getting used to these changes by both food spots and consumers.
Looking Ahead: BC’s Commitment to Sustainability
The updated regulations in BC is made to align with the broader Canadian initiative launched in December 2022, which saw the nationwide ban on several single-use plastic items.
As BC takes these additional steps, the focus on reducing waste and protecting the environment continues to grow, inviting both businesses and customers to partake in creating a cleaner future for all British Columbians.
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