The new legislation in Toronto will come into effect next week, which will prevent restaurants in the city from distributing plastic utensils and cups unless specifically requested.

The legislation, which began gaining momentum in late 2023, was passed and will come into effect on March 1.

The new regulation aims to reduce single-use plastic waste produced by restaurants in the city while developing a recycling economy and encouraging Toronto residents to invest in reusable cups and utensils.

Starting March 1, businesses will be required to follow a "ask first / on request" approach when it comes to single-use plastics, meaning customers will have to specifically request
utensils or cups with their orders.

Not only plastic will be restricted under the regulation. "Food material accessories," such as straws, napkins, and condiment packets, as well as paper shopping bags, all fall under the "ask first / on request" principle.

The new regulation will also require businesses to accept customers' reusable cups and shopping bags.

To adapt to the requirements stated in the regulation, small businesses in Toronto will be able to apply for a grant from the Circular Food Innovators Fund to cover any costs they may incur in
adopting the regulation.

These are only the first steps in the city's strategy to reduce single-use waste in the city, with the next steps scheduled for discussion in
2025.