NY Styrofoam ban set to take effect Jan.1

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC)— If you haven’t seen it already, you can expect to see some changes very soon when you order food to go, or get delivery.

New York State’s ban on Styrofoam containers is set to take effect in just about two weeks. The state adopted one of the strongest bans this year on containers on the material, which is made from polystyrene foam (most people just call it Styrofoam).

The main issue for the state, is that Styrofoam comes from petroleum, and it takes up space in landfills and cannot be recycled. The material is commonly used in making single-use, to-go containers, beverage cups, or loose packaging peanuts.

Exemptions to the rule will include storing raw meat, pork, seafood, poultry, or fish sold for the purpose of cooking or preparing off-premises. Groups can also apply for a hardship waiver/

The foam packaging is one of the top materials found in litter and harms wildlife. Learn more about the ban here.