Bio bags don’t belong in green bins
I was pleased to see Mission Trails Waste Management clarify in their February newsletter that “no plastic of any kind, including ‘bio’ bags or compostable plastics, should be placed in the green bin.”
Many of us assume bio bags are compostable based on their labeling. However, these bags do not break down in Mission Trails’ facilities, risking contamination of the final compost and failing to meet agricultural standards.
While most bio bags are BPI-certified as industrially compostable, labels often include disclaimers like, “Commercial facilities may not exist in your area. Check locally,” revealing a disconnect between product marketing and local commercial composting realities.
A recent call to Mission Trails confirmed the newsletter’s guidance, though conflicting information remains online. I assume their website will soon be updated to reflect this latest guidance to the community.
Research shows that bioplastics can be every bit as harmful as traditional plastics. Mission Trails’ updated policy reflects this and encourages us to embrace more sustainable solutions. Unfortunately, no form of plastic is truly impact-free.
I commend Mission Trails Waste Management for their position and urge residents to follow this updated guidance. Together, we can reduce plastic contamination and support a healthier composting process.
Laura Fay
Los Altos
City dragging feet on dark ordinance
I’ve lived in Los Altos my whole life and love seeing birds in our trees and open spaces. Our city is lucky to support both local and migratory birds, but many don’t realize how deadly buildings can be.
Every year, hundreds of thousands of birds die after flying into windows. That’s why I was excited when Los Altos started working on a Bird Safety Ordinance – but now, after more than a year, it’s been delayed and weakened. Birds need real protection, not half measures.
The city council was also supposed to consider a lighting ordinance. Bright lights don’t just disrupt birds – they also impact residents.
Almost every nearby city has lighting rules, but Los Altos doesn’t. That means harsh new LEDs are ruining the town’s character.
Without clear standards, our neighborhoods are starting to look more like a cruise ship deck than a peaceful community.
It’s time for the city council to act. Tell them Los Altos needs a strong Bird Safety Ordinance and a real lighting ordinance – now.
Mia Ravishankar
Los Altos
