By reporter Steven Smalley
It?s the law in Seattle beginning this New Year. Throw your food scraps in the compost bin instead of the trash, or you could get hit with fines. Beginning this summer, businesses can see penalties of up to $50, while residents get nicked for one dollar per violation, if the city desires. The fines go on your utility bill, according to the city of Seattle.
Mayor Ed Murray signed a law that brings punitive action against those who put food, pizza boxes, paper napkins, or paper towels in the garbage. Place it all in the compost bin, or reach for your wallet.
The new law is officially in force January 1. Fines begin in July.
Soon the garbage collector will also have the job of trash cop. The fines are the incentive for customers to comply, according to city officials.
?Most of our city?s businesses and residents are already composting. This requirement is a progression of our collective efforts that help our city become even greener,? according to Solid Waste Director Tim Croll.
?It?s just a symbolic gesture,? says Todd Myers, Environmental Director for the Washington Policy Center, who says the cost of implementing the new recycling campaign is $400,000.
?We?re spending (the funds) to feel good,? he claims. ?In fact we could use the money to actually help. If you oppose carbon emissions you can use the $400,000 to actually do something.?
Seattle is the latest of four U.S. cities that have passed food waste laws, including Portland, Oregon; San Francisco; and New York City.