Dear Editor,
Re: “Richmond needs to take initiative,” Letters, Jan. 6.
A letter in the Jan. 6 edition provides a good opportunity to remind residents of steps being taken to eliminate the commercial use of single-use plastics in Richmond.
Richmond is a leader in environmental sustainability and is one of the first cities to make effective changes to reduce plastic waste through a bylaw. The City developed the bylaw in 2019 to eliminate commercial use of plastic checkout bags, plastic straws and takeout foam food serviceware.
Unlike Vancouver, which operates under its own charter, Richmond’s bylaw required provincial approval which was given after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Recognizing the significance of the bylaw on business and consumers, the City actively engaged the community to determine the most effective implementation approach. Feedback confirmed support for the bylaw and told us that a phased approach would ensure success for business, customers and suppliers. While the COVID-19 pandemic has slowed the initial implementation, Council formally adopted the bylaw in September 2021. Plastic checkout bags, straws and takeout foam food serviceware will be banned effective in March 2022. Active enforcement will begin in September.
By ensuring a measured and thoughtful approach, businesses have time to use up existing stock and transition to acceptable alternatives. It also allows us to further engage with the community to ensure a smooth transition to the new rules. This approach will achieve permanent, meaningful change by directly addressing the challenge of plastic pollution in our environment based on sustainable environmental decisions for our community.
Malcolm D. Brodie
MAYOR, CITY OF RICHMOND
