Plastic foam disposable coffee cups dispensed by fast-food chains such as Dunkin’ Donuts and other coffee shops would be banned in Boston under a measure being introduced today before the Boston City Council.
The nationwide coffee giant says it is already climbing on the eco-bandwagon. But at-large City Councilor Stephen Murphy wants to see the Hub follow the lead of cities such as Seattle, San Francisco and Portland, Ore., and outlaw all nonrecyclable No. 6 plastic beverage and food-service containers.
“This No. 6 plastic is the most dangerous for the environment. (The cups) don’t sink. They float in the ocean. They are a detriment to marine life. If you put them in a landfill, they remain intact for over 1,000 years,” said Murphy, who will unveil his proposed ban at today’s council meeting.
Dunkin’ Donuts, one of the largest coffee retailers in the city, said in a statement that it is already using paper cups for its small hot coffee and espresso beverages.
“We are also actively researching alternatives to foam for our medium, large and extra-large cups. Additionally, at our first Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certified Dunkin’ Donuts in St. Petersburg, Fla., which serves as our prototype for future green efforts, we are testing alternative cups to our foam cups as well as a reusable mug program,” said the Canton-based company said.
