“Polystyrene is harmful to humans, it puts a strain on our fish stocks and it can’t be recycled,” said Representative Stanley Paige Zeigler, who sponsored the bill.
In an effort to combat pollution and environmental destruction, Maine has become the first U.S. state to ban disposable food service containers made of polystyrene.
The Pacific Standard reported in March that recent attempts to ban single-use polystyrene in California and Hawaii had failed. Those products include cups, cartons and food containers. Television station WMTW reported yesterday there were no facilities that can recycle polystyrene in Maine. Governor Mills said polystyrene containers spread easily because they are often lightweight. But they break down into microplastics carrying toxins and are ingested by wildlife. Eventually, those toxins can enter the general food supply. In recent years, a number of huge brands operating in the U.S have pledged to stop using foam containers—including Dunkin’ Donuts and McDonald’s.
“That is why several municipalities across the state have already taken steps to ban polystyrene. This legislation will create consistency for businesses that operate in multiple municipalities, provide ample time to adjust to the change, promote sustainable Maine-made alternative containers, and take an important step forward in protecting our environment.”
Sarah Lakeman, a director at the Natural Resources Council of Maine, said the law proved the state is an “environmental leader.” She called polystyrene “common, costly and deadly.”
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