As decided earlier, San Francisco International Airport begins the ban on the sale of single-use plastic bottles from today. While the environment-friendly move was highly praised, it seems that the plan was a big loophole. It seems that the ban is only on smaller bottles but the bigger ones are still available. A ban on the sale of plastic water bottles under 1 litre went into effect Tuesday, but passengers can still buy water bottle in larger sizes. The airport wants flyers to buy refillable bottles if they are not carrying their own. The step is part of airport's eco-friendly effort to become the world's first zero-waste airport by 2021.

The ban applies to all restaurants, cafes and vending machines, however, not on planes at the airport. Brands of flavoured water are also exempted from the ban. According to a statement released by the airport, all of the airport's restaurants, retailers, lounges and vending machines will now have to sell water in a recyclable aluminium, glass or BPI-certified bottles.

As confirmed on the SFO website, "This policy covers drinking water in a sealed box, bag, can, bottle or other container intended mainly for single-service use and having a capacity of 1 litre or less." Talking about the move earlier, Airport spokesman Doug Yakel told the newspaper, "We're the first airport that we're aware of to implement this change. We're on the leading edge for the industry, and we want to push the boundaries of sustainability initiatives." 'Plastic Monster' Installed at Bandra Worli Sealink Promenade to Raise Awareness about Plastic Disposal.

Here Are Items Banned And Exempted From Airport's Policy

Banned Items

  • Drinking water in a sealed box, bag, can, bottle or other containers, mainly to single-service use and with a capacity of 1 litre or less.

  • Unflavored water, including purified water, mineral water, unflavored carbonated or sparkling water, and unflavored electrolyte-enhanced water.

Exempted Items

  • Brands of flavoured water including sodas, teas, and juices. It does not apply to beverages or any drinks served on flights.

The airport describes itself as an "industry leader" in sustainability and installing solar panels. They instruct tenants to use fully compostable food ware including straws and utensils. San Francisco city had banned the sale of plastic water bottles on city-owned property in 2014, however, there were some exemptions. Alternatives for Plastic Ban: These Soluble Bags Made From Potato and Organic Waste Could Be a Good Option.

Plastic pollution is one of the major polluting agents currently present in the world. With global plastic production on the rise and no means to manage the waste, it has entered the oceans which eventually end in the human system. More than 400 million tons per year is produced per year of which 70 percent of the litter are single-use items. Plastic pollution also affects wildlife and enters the food chain. Indian and Dubai airports in Dubai have announced similar plastic bottle bans, with some left to be fully implemented.

 

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 21, 2019 09:14 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).