Upper Merion Township Expands Single-Use Plastic Ban to Include Utensils
Upper Merion Township in Pennsylvania has expanded its efforts to reduce single-use plastics by banning plastic forks and spoons in restaurants. This move follows the earlier phase of the ordinance that prohibited single-use plastic bags, straws, and expanded polystyrene food service products. The new regulations are part of a broader initiative aimed at minimizing environmental waste in the community.
Under the ordinance, businesses must comply with the ban or face penalties, starting with a warning and escalating to fines for repeated violations. While some business owners and customers have expressed concerns about the inconvenience and additional costs, others see the ban as a positive step toward environmental conservation.
To assist residents, the township is distributing free reusable shopping bags that include a QR code linking to more information about the ordinance. Upper Merion's actions are part of a growing trend, with similar bans on single-use plastics being implemented in numerous states and cities across the country.
