Orlando passes ban on all single-use plastics at all city-owned venues

Orlando, Fla. — Orlando is moving forward with a ban on plastic straws, bags, cutlery and Styrofoam food containers.

Mayor Buddy Dyer applauded the move and says he hopes other cities in Florida follow Orlando's lead.

City officials began the effort to ban single-use plastics and polystyrenes last year and say the ban will eliminate tons of trash that now goes into landfills and waterways.

The ban means city contractors will not be able to use the products at city-owned parks and venues, like the Amway Center.

There is an exception allowing vendors to have plastic straws upon request for people with disabilities.

The vote Monday afternoon by city commissioners was unanimous. It does not fully go into effect until October.