Washington state’s ban on Styrofoam goes into effect today

VANCOUVER Wash. (KPTV) - Beginning on Saturday, June 1, foam containers are illegal in Washington state.

The ban stems from a 2021 law that was passed by the state legislature. The same rule that prohibited foam packing peanuts from being sold or distributed last year also applied to them. Anything made of expanded polystyrene (EPS), such as coffee cups, clamshell takeout containers, trays, and other food and drink carriers, will be prohibited.

EPS foam is “a lightweight cellular plastic material consisting of small hollow spherical balls that are expanded and processed through a variety of techniques,” according to the Washington State Department of Ecology.

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These materials are extremely brittle and break easily into tiny pieces. EPS materials are also hard to recycle, and it’s expensive, according to the Department of Ecology. Since the materials aren’t accepted at most Washington recycling plants, they usually end up in landfills or the environment.

Packaging containing raw, undercooked, or slaughtered meat, fish, poultry, or shellfish is exempt from the restriction. According to the law, boxes for fruits, vegetables, or eggs are likewise exempt.

Violators could face a $250 fine for their first offense and up to a $1,000 fine for repeat offenders.