Mayor mulls banning styro, plastics at restos

Las Piñas City Mayor Imelda Aguilar is mulling a total ban on the use of plastics and styrofoam by fast food chains and restaurants to protect the public from further health hazards.

Aguilar raised the issue as the city’s contribution and commitment during the celebration of World Earth Day.

The mayor called for alternatives in the use of plastic plates, spoons and forks, drinking cups and other food receptacles by restaurants, food chains and food stalls in serving meals.

Instead, Aguilar said paper boxes and cups and wooden spoons or chopsticks may be used as an option.

"It’s about time we all do our share in saving the environment and start by doing away with the malpractice which endangers lives and our planet in general," Aguilar said.

The mayor explained there is no point to compromise the people’s health in exchange for convenience with the use of disposable food servers and utensils.

She also cited the bulk of trash collected of disposable plates, cups and other food implements, which contribute to the problem of mounting garbage in the wake of a possible dump site problem Metro Manila is facing.

Aguilar is set to meet with representatives of popular fast food chains, food stall owners and restaurants operating in the city to get their cooperation in the strict use of environment-friendly utensils in their services.

The recent move by the mayor is part of her relentless campaign for cleanliness in the entire city with an earlier order for the strict implementation of an ordinance calling for stiffer penalties against litterbugs and the segregation of garbage in every household and business establishments.