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MCC Daily Tribune

Green Tip: Beyond the Foam Ban

Polystyrene is one of the top ten contributors of environmental litter. While NYS has banned expanded polystyrene single-use foam food and beverage containers and polystyrene loose fill packaging materials, there is still more that we can do as individuals to be more sustainable, especially when it comes to food and the kitchen.

What can I do?

  • Buy a reusable container, instead of using single-use containers, to carry food.
  • Buy food-grade reusable silicone storage bags, instead of single-use plastic bags.
  • Ask for no plastic utensils if getting take-out food for eating at home
  • Buy a reusable silicone or collapsible steel straw to use in place of disposables or just say “no” to the straw.
  • Buy a portable cutlery set for eating out (to use in place of disposable utensils).
  • Patronize your local butcher, instead of buying prepackaged meats on foam trays. Be sure to buy in similar quantities – 4 steaks instead of 1 at a time to conserve packaging.
  • Planning a small party? Get a set of lightweight reusable camping or picnic ware, instead of using disposable plates and bowls.
  • Be sure to properly dispose of any single-use foam containers (such as trays found under pre-packaged meats) in the trash. Collect your white packing foam and take it to Monroe County’s Eco-park for proper disposal

Looking for other ways to be more sustainable in your kitchen?  Check out “The Best Products for a Sustainable Kitchen” from The Strategist.

Ann Penwarden
Sustainability Steering Committee
04/12/2022