In the U.S., billions of unused foodware accessories including utensils, straws, and condiment packets are tossed away annually. This “zero-use” trash clogs landfills, pollutes our streets and waterways, and adds to the global glut of non-recyclable plastic production.   

Restaurants currently offer foodware accessories regardless of request, when many customers already have their own reusable utensils, straws and condiments at home. Moving to an on-request model reduces waste and ultimately saves businesses money: it is a win-win-win for establishments, their patrons and our communities.

The COVID-19 pandemic has increased reliance on food delivery and takeout and thereby increased the use of single-use items. In light of pandemic mandates, restaurants are depending on to-go and delivery options to survive, and the amount of single-use foodware and, according to an estimate by the International Waste Association, the amount of accessory items wasted has skyrocketed by approximately 250-300%.   

Additionally, Coastal Cleanup Month data shows that in September 2020 in LA County, volunteers collected and recorded over 40,000 pieces of trash to total 4,320 pounds. This data shows an increase in food delivery and takeout waste, with foodware accessories the fourth most commonly found item and takeout containers the fifth.

Join Surfrider Foundation LA and South Bay Chapters in demanding that the City of Los Angeles enact a Foodware Accessories Upon Request Ordinance which will reduce a major source of pollution while saving local businesses money in the long run.

(This action alert is available only for City of Los Angeles residents.)