Toronto city council approves revisions to single-use reduction strategy

Toronto has voted to amend the single-use and takeaway items reduction strategy, eliminating the suggested minimum fee for reusable bags at checkout counters.

Though the decision was made on Friday, Dec. 15, it was understood that discussions around a minimum fee for reusable bags may go back to the council for additional debate at some point in the future when there is further clarity on the outcome of the federal plastics court case.

The amendment includes an ‘ask-first’ policy for reusable cups where businesses would be required to ask if customers brought their cups before being served. The council also clarified that cup lids were exempt from the ‘ask-first’ policy.

Instead, businesses are required to post signs stating they accept reusable cups. It will be included as part of the staff report back to the council in Q1 2024 and will have to pass a vote at that time.

The Retail Council of Canada says they will continue encouraging policy flexibility and practicality to consider health and safety issues. It will also provide options for self-serve stations to meet any ‘ask first’ requirements.

As of March 1, 2024, in Toronto, all retailer and quick service restaurant (QSR) locations in the GTA must ask each customer before providing any single-use shopping bag (including paper bags).

A statement reads that while most retailers may already have a policy here (as bags are now traditionally linked to a higher cost to customers), some retailers and all QSRs must adapt their operating policies before March 1, 2024. Enforcement of this bylaw will be complaints-based.

For QSR members, there are additional ‘ask first’ provisions for all single-use accessory food items other than cups and lids (e.g., utensils, straws, stir sticks, spill plugs, napkins (serviettes), condiment packets, and cup trays) as of March 1, 2024. Further, businesses are required to accept reusable containers.