Center for Innovative Diplomacy Archive

City officials have approved a ban next year on plastic food containers, coolants, solvents, and other products containing chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) that deplete theEarth's ozone layer.

According to a city ordinance adopted Tuesday, local businesses will not be allowed to buy, sell, or use products containing CFCs, as of July l , 1990.Scientists say CFCs are destroying the Earth's ozone layer, which screens the sun's ultraviolet rays. Researchers say exposureto large doses of ultraviolet rays is harmful to humans, as well as a variety of plants and animals.

The measure, approved by a 4-to-l vote, is believed to be one of the most comprehensive ever adopted, city officials say.