Environmentally Acceptable Packaging | Mount Pleasant, SC (original) (raw)

The Town’s Environmentally Acceptable Packaging Ordinance is a key initiative designed to promote a greener, more sustainable future for our community. Originally passed in 2018, this ordinance was updated with its latest amendments on April 16, 2024, to further enhance its environmental impact and adapt to current sustainability needs.

Key Points:

What Does the Ordinance Entail?

The ordinance requires the use of environmentally acceptable packaging for all products distributed within Mount Pleasant and prohibits the use of specific harmful materials. Below is a summary of its key provisions:

Reusable Carryout Bags

Reusable carryout bags must:

• Display, in a highly visible manner on the bag exterior, language describing the bag's ability to be reused and recycled.
• Have a stitched handle (not heat-fused).
• Be constructed of:
  • Cloth, other machine-washable fabric, or other durable materials, whether woven or non-woven.
  • Recyclable plastic, with a minimum thickness of 4 mils.
  • Have a minimum lifetime of 125 uses, defined as the ability to carry at least 22 pounds 125 times over a distance of 175 feet.

Prohibited Items

The ordinance prohibits the following:

• Single-use plastic carryout bags at any business establishment, town facility, town-sponsored event, or event held on town property.
• Polystyrene/plastic foam disposable food service ware and other non-recyclable products, such as cups, plates, clamshell containers, and packing peanuts.
• The sale, rental, or distribution of polystyrene/plastic foam products unless wholly encapsulated in durable materials (e.g., surfboards, durable coolers).

Disposable Food Service Ware

Businesses, food providers, and town facilities must use disposable food service ware that is either recyclable or compostable.

Exemptions

The ordinance provides specific exemptions for certain situations, including:

• Packaging required to meet food safety regulations.
• Bags used for bulk items, produce, bakery goods, or prescription drugs.
• Durable items made from encapsulated polystyrene, such as surfboards or boats.

When Does It Take Effect?

While the original ordinance was passed in 2018, the latest amendments were approved on April 16, 2024, and became fully effective on August 14, 2024.

Why Is This Important?

This ordinance is a critical step in reducing Mount Pleasant’s ecological footprint by:

• Limiting the environmental impact of plastic waste.
• Protecting wildlife and waterways from harmful materials.
• Promoting a culture of sustainability.

Your Role in Compliance:

We encourage all businesses to familiarize themselves with the ordinance and take proactive steps to ensure compliance. This includes transitioning to environmentally acceptable packaging within the specified timeframe.