People shopping at some Ottawa restaurants and grocery stores can now use a reusable plastic container instead of a single-use takeout box.
In a new pilot project meant to help businesses cut down on single-use plastics, participating locations are providing free reusable containers in areas like salad bars and deli sections. The containers have QR codes customers can scan when cashing out.
People have 14 days to return the containers at the store, with users charged $10 if they don’t.
If the containers are returned 30 days after that, users will get their money back.
The containers should be scraped free of food and will be sanitized at a professional facility.
Participating businesses — eight so far, according to the program website — will also have access to container tracking, washing and distribution services provided.
The program is expected to run until some time next year.
Jason Hawkins, the CEO of a Vancouver-based reusable tech company involved in the project, said he’s hopeful the initiative can expand beyond Ottawa.
“The goal is to provide a system that’s easy for people to understand, participate in, and to have a path for them to make the planet a better place just in their everyday actions,” Hawkins said.
Michael Rose of the Metro grocery chain likened it to a library book check-out system.
Rideau-Rockcliffe Coun. Rawlson King, who also attended Thursday’s launch event, said it’s an important cause given “the effects of climate change and environmental harm in our communities.”