By Harley F. Palangchao
Manila Times Northern Luzon Bureau
BAGUIO CITY: Two officials here filed a proposed ordinance seeking to ban starting 2008 the use of polystyrene foam, commonly known as styrofoam, in all business establishments in the city.
Councilors Galo Weygan and Perlita Chan-Rondez observed that many establishments use styrofoam for food packaging despite reports that it contains toxic chemicals.
“Polystyrene, which is commonly used by food catering establishments, was discovered to be made from petroleum, a nonsustainable and heavy polluting commodity,” the officials said.
They added that scientific studies have revealed that polystyrene also contains a contaminant chemical called styrene, a single-molecule form of polystyrene that usually migrates into food and beverages. Styrene could disrupt normal hormonal functions contributing to thyroid problems, breast and prostate cancers and other ailments.
Besides the health hazard, Weygan and Rondez said banning the use of polystyrene effective January 1, 2008, would be the most effective way of reducing nonbiodegradable waste in Baguio
Manila Times Northern Luzon Bureau
BAGUIO CITY: Two officials here filed a proposed ordinance seeking to ban starting 2008 the use of polystyrene foam, commonly known as styrofoam, in all business establishments in the city.
Councilors Galo Weygan and Perlita Chan-Rondez observed that many establishments use styrofoam for food packaging despite reports that it contains toxic chemicals.
“Polystyrene, which is commonly used by food catering establishments, was discovered to be made from petroleum, a nonsustainable and heavy polluting commodity,” the officials said.
They added that scientific studies have revealed that polystyrene also contains a contaminant chemical called styrene, a single-molecule form of polystyrene that usually migrates into food and beverages. Styrene could disrupt normal hormonal functions contributing to thyroid problems, breast and prostate cancers and other ailments.
Besides the health hazard, Weygan and Rondez said banning the use of polystyrene effective January 1, 2008, would be the most effective way of reducing nonbiodegradable waste in Baguio
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