NYS FOAM BAN 1/1/2022
Posted on: December 1, 2021 - 9:18pm
GOES INTO EFFECT JANUARY 1, 2022
Expanded Polystyrene Foam Container and Polystyrene Loose Fill Packaging Ban
Foam packaging is a top contributor of environmental litter, causing
negative impacts to wildlife and waterways, as well as littering our
communities. It is lightweight, breaks apart easily, and does not readily biodegrade. Polystyrene foam may also become microplastic pollution. Foam containers and loose fill packaging, such as packing peanuts, are not accepted in most recycling programs in NY State because the foam is
difficult to recycle and has low value. For these reasons, certain expanded polystyrene foam products will be banned in New York to protect the environment and support sustainable materials management.
BANNED ITEMS
• Any single-use, disposable expanded polystyrene foam food service containers
used for prepared food and beverages, including but not limited to: bowls, cartons, clamshells, cups, lids, plates, and trays
• Packing peanuts or other void-filling, loose fill packaging products
made of expanded polystyrene foam
Environmental Conservation Law (ECL), Article 27, Title 30: