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MCC Daily Tribune

Green Tip: Foam Free New York

New York should be greener this year with its statewide ban on polystyrene foam containers and loose fill packaging, which is among the first in the nation. As of January 1, 2022, no covered food service provider or store (retail or wholesale) will be allowed to sell, offer for sale, or distribute disposable food service containers that contain expanded polystyrene foam in New York. This includes single-use foam bowls, "clamshell" containers, cups, lids, plates, trays, or other products designed to temporarily store or transport prepared foods or beverages. Financial hardship waivers are available for eligible entities like community meal programs.

In addition, no manufacturer or store will be allowed to sell, offer for sale, or distribute polystyrene loose fill packaging (commonly referred to as packing peanuts) in the state.

New York’s ban includes exemptions for some raw meat, poultry, fish, and certain prepackaged foods. This foam is a form of plastic (which is why you’ll sometimes see the #6 inside chasing arrows on foam items). 

What to do with Foam?

Foam is lightweight and easily blows away if not properly disposed of, creating litter on our landscapes and waterways.

Don’t toss any foam packaging in your home recycling bin! It is not recyclable in residential recycling programs because it is too difficult to separate from other plastics, paper, metal and glass. It’s also a lower value plastic.

Find alternative ways to recycle some foam products from Recycle Right New York's NYS Recyclopedia.

  • Packing Peanuts:
    • Use them the next time you ship something as they are reusable.
    • Reuse them to refill cushions or stuffed animals.
    •  EPS Industry Alliance offers information on drop off/mail back recycling options.

Note: Clean, white packing Styrofoam (#6 only) (like appliance or electronic component packaging) is accepted for recycling at Monroe County’s Ecopark during regular collection hours. Styrofoam must clean, white, and not have any tape or stickers attached.

Learn more about NY’s Foam Ban and follow the hashtag #FoamFreeNY on social media.

Ann Penwarden
Sustainability Steering Committee
03/08/2022