You may have noticed a change in packaging and containers offered at your local stores and restaurants as New York’s Foam Ban went into effect January 1, 2022.
Under the new Foam Container and Loose Fill Packaging Ban, restaurants and stores are no longer be allowed to sell certain expanded polystyrene foam (also known as styrofoam) containers. These items include styrofoam bowls, clamshell containers, cups, plates and trays. In addition, styrofoam packaging peanuts are no longer sold in New York State.
As these polystyrene foam containers are not accepted in most recycling programs and do not readily biodegrade, they end up as trash and can enter the environment as pollution if not managed properly. By banning polystyrene food containers, New York is taking another step to protect the environment and rethink waste. If you need alternatives to these items, please consider reusable items such as travel mugs and reusable food containers for leftovers.