Breaking Up with Polystyrene: A Success Story

On January 1, 2022, the City of Thousand Oaks’ ban on the sale and distribution of polystyrene, commonly known as Styrofoam™ went into effect. This action was intended to reduce litter, protect local waterways, and prevent harm to wildlife that were accidentally ingesting the plastic. The decision followed a growing trend among cities, counties, and states to phase out harmful single-use plastics that were not recyclable or caused significant environmental harm. The process began in 2019, when the City Council directed staff to explore the feasibility of phasing out certain plastics. This effort aligned with the City Council’s commitment to environmental stewardship, as outlined in the Sustainable Strategic Plan and later reinforced in the Climate and Environmental Action Plan (CEAP).

In April 2020, City staff invited community stakeholders to discuss the practicability of phasing out items like polystyrene. The stakeholder group consisted of multiple stakeholders, including representatives from Amgen, Los Robles Regional Medical Center, The Cheesecake Factory, Mouthful Eatery, and the Five07 Coffee Bar and Eatery, along with members of the public and Mayor Al Adam. Over the five months of virtual meetings, the group explored the costs of alternative products, industry-related impacts, potential exemptions, and an appropriate timeline for implementation. Their findings, along with staff recommendations, were presented at the October 13, 2020, City Council meeting. The City Council voted unanimously (4 – 0) to approve the ordinance banning the sale and distribution of rigid (such as plastic cutlery, and coffee lids) and expanded polystyrene (foam takeout boxes, and cups). The ordinance also requires businesses to provide single-use foodware items on request only. The Council directed staff to work cooperatively with the businesses to educate them and assist in identifying options before taking enforcement action or issuing fines.

City staff provided all affected businesses, including grocery and restaurant supply stores, with educational materials and courtesy notices explaining the ordinance. In addition, table tents were provided for businesses to place on their tables to explain the change in service to their guests. Most businesses were able to find alternative products before the 2022 deadline. However, some faced supply challenges with increased demand for to-go food during the COVID-19 pandemic and required additional time to comply.

Through continued outreach to businesses, including site visits to educate new managers and new businesses, almost all single-use polystyrene products have been eliminated within the City. If you encounter a business within the City selling or distributing single-use polystyrene, please notify us at gogreen@toaks.gov. City staff are available to help them transition to more sustainable alternatives.

For Businesses Interested in Sustainable Practices

If your business would like to learn more about state and city solid waste requirements, you can find helpful information here. If you are curious about more eco-friendly and sustainable food serving ware, visit here. City staff are available to support businesses in transitioning to more sustainable alternatives. If you have a more specific question, please contact Philip Hirrel at phirrel@toaks.gov.