Frequently Asked Question

• Why is this bylaw being considered?

Plastic is a well-known health hazard. Nano plastics (tiny particles of plastic) have been found in all parts of the human body, in placentas and blood. Plastics are associated with certain cancers, hormone dysregulation including lower levels of fertility, dementia and more. Plastics in contact with heated foods shed nano plastics more rapidly.

The Health Department protects us from many health risks, including improper refrigeration temperatures, ensuring proper food preparation techniques, and from vermin such as mice and cockroaches. Plastic exposure is a health risk that the health department has jurisdiction over.

•  Which businesses will this affect? Could I use up my current inventory of plastics?

Any business that has a permit to sell or give out food in Hudson will be affected and yes, businesses have seven months to use up existing supplies.

•  Does this ban all plastics in town?

No, only plastics which are non-recyclable in the town of Hudson.

•  Will my takeout order cost more?

A growing number of restaurants in town have already switched to compostable products. For others, it may cost a small amount more. As more jurisdictions pass plastic restrictions the costs for alternatives are coming down.

•  Are you trying to force us to use paper straws? They don’t work well.

We Agree! There are many alternatives to plastic straws available. Straws composed of agave, bamboo, coffee grounds, etc. are extremely rigid and will not fall apart. The best solution is to carry your own metal, or cardboard straws, or skip the straws altogether! It is estimated that as many as 500 million plastic straws are used and thrown away per day in the U.S. They cannot be recycled due to their small size. They get caught in the recycling sorting equipment and are called, “tanglers.”

•  Why will we have to ask for straws, utensils and condiments in our take-out orders?

This legislation has shown to cut down on the amount of waste. Most take-out food is eaten at home or work where utensils are available. This saves money for businesses too.

•  Am I banned from using plastic utensils or Styrofoam cups for a picnic or party?

No. Stores will be required to offer compostable alternatives in addition to these plastic options. 

•  Will this increase expenses for the schools?

Initially there may be a small cost increase, but paper tray alternatives have already been adopted by many nearby towns and they are already used at Hudson High School. Our children’s health is more important.

·  I ship items from my home or business using Styrofoam, how does this affect me?

Hudson businesses will no longer be able to use Styrofoam in their packing and shipping or to sell Styrofoam or packing peanuts. Crinkled paper, or starch-based peanuts work well. 

•  My child/relative needs plastic bendable straws for drinking. Will they be affected?

Families will and already mostly do have to bring their own bendable straws to restaurants. Medical facilities in Hudson are exempt from the prohibition on plastic straws.