by Tristan Justice The District of Columbia is set to implement a new ban on single-use plastic straws and coffee stirrers. Poised to take effect Jan. 1, the prohibition is not limited only to restaurants and bars, but also churches, day care centers, and other entities in the city. D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser is recommending the use instead of alternative items made from hay, bamboo, glass, paper, or stainless steel. “@MayorBowser’s list of recyclable and compostable now requires the use of compostable and/or reusable straws and stirrers when selling food or beverages in the District. Enforcement begins January 1, 2019!” the D.C. Department of Energy and Environment tweeted Thursday. .@MayorBowser's list of recyclables and compostables now requires the use of compostable and/or reusable straws and stirrers when selling food or beverages in the District. Enforcement begins January 1, 2019! See all foodservice ware requirements➡️ https://t.co/Nr0UUoNENr pic.twitter.com/Z4kJBqJipF — Department of Energy and Environment (@DOEE_DC) November 15, 2018 The District’s government will begin inspecting restaurants, pubs, food trucks, and other businesses and organizations for compliance on Jan. 1 and will begin issuing fines for noncompliance with the law on July 1, according to the department’s website. The D.C. Department of Energy…
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