California expanding polystyrene bans

Polystyrene packaging

The Hermosa Beach City Council has officially approved a ban on polystyrene food packaging, which is expected to impact about 30 businesses in the beach town, including restaurants and grocery stores.

PS foam is a lightweight petroleum-based plastic material commonly used for serving or transporting prepared foods, such as plates, bowls, clam shells and cups.

Many environmental groups view polystyrene as a main cause of beach and ocean pollution. This material breaks down into smaller pieces, and marine wildlife can mistake polystyrene pieces for food.

The polystyrene ordinance at Hermosa Beach is expected to be formally approved at a Sept. 11 council meeting and will become effective 180 days from that date. The ordinance won't prohibit people from carrying polystyrene products into the city, or using them in parks and on the beach, according to The Daily Breeze. The rule also won't apply to the Hermosa Beach City School District.

Keith Christman, managing director of the plastics markets for the American Chemistry Council, told PlasticsToday he does not believe bans are the solution to reduce waste.

"Litter is certainly a challenge," he said. "But we have to work on preventing litter and making sure products are disposed of properly and recycled after use."

Read the full PlasticsToday article here.
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