It's not quite a matter of "selfish." It's also a lack of infrastructure, as well as other operational concerns. 1) It's difficult to get biodegradable containers for some restauranteurs, and 2) it's cost-prohibitive for many vendors. Making the switch to biodegradable containers means an additional 50 cents per container. In addition to this, many small-scale restauranteurs are first-generation immigrants. They just don't understand --  or care about -- the need for biodegradable containers. If they state -- or its non-profit sector -- is really committed to this, it would start with education and advocacy first, and go with the state's repressive iron fist last. Perhaps some "market development" would also help -- for example, bonds to fund a biodegradable container factory here locally.