Commission backs reusable foodware resolution, urges Board of Supervisors to act

The San Francisco Commission on the Environment voted March 28 to advance a resolution encouraging the Board of Supervisors to adopt a reusable food serviceware ordinance aimed at cutting single‑use food packaging.

Miriam Gordon of the Reusable SF Coalition described the proposal's four elements: require reuse for on‑site dining, ensure businesses accept customers' personal reusables for takeout, update "accessories on request" to be consistent with the state retail food safety code and AB 1276, and require reusable cup/return systems at large venues. Gordon cited local case studies and national figures to underline the potential impact: "Food service businesses in the U.S. are spending $24,000,000,000 a year on disposable foodware, purchasing 1,000,000,000,000 pieces of disposables," she said, and argued reuse can sharply reduce waste while saving the industry money.

Commissioners asked practical questions about how the rule would apply to on‑site versus takeout service and how online ordering would surface accessory choices; Gordon and staff said the policy is designed to make accessories available only on request and to allow vendors to list accessories in online menus rather than defaulting to automatically including items like utensils. She also pointed to vendors and third‑party operators (R Cup and Turn) that provide reusable cup programs at large venues.

Commissioner Sullivan moved to approve the resolution to send it to the Board of Supervisors; Commissioner Bermejo seconded. The commission recorded ayes from those present and the motion passed. A department staff member spoke in support during public comment, and commissioners signaled the item will be forwarded to the supervisors for consideration.

What happens next: The resolution will be sent to the Board of Supervisors for consideration of an ordinance adopting the outlined reuse policy.