New York State, January 3, 2026
New York State has expanded its environmental regulations by extending the ban on polystyrene foam food service containers and implementing restrictions on single-use plastic bottles for personal care products in hotels, effective January 1, 2026. This move aims to reduce environmental pollution and promote sustainable practices as businesses are encouraged to transition to more eco-friendly alternatives.
New York State’s Expanded Ban on Foam Containers and Plastic Bottles
New York State has broadened its environmental regulations by extending the ban on polystyrene foam food service containers and introducing restrictions on single-use plastic bottles for personal care products in hotels, effective January 1, 2026.
Expanded Ban on Polystyrene Foam Containers
As of January 1, 2026, New York has expanded its ban on polystyrene foam food service containers. Covered food service businesses are now prohibited from selling or distributing polystyrene foam containers that are not enclosed within a more durable container and are designed or intended to be used for cold storage, including, but not limited to, coolers and ice chests.
Restrictions on Single-Use Plastic Bottles in Hotels
Additionally, hotels, apartment hotels, motels, or boarding houses with fewer than 50 rooms are now prohibited from providing any small plastic bottle containing less than 12 ounces of personal care products like shampoo, conditioner, moisturizers, and soaps/body wash.
Environmental Impact and Rationale
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) highlights that polystyrene foam and plastic bottles are significant contributors to environmental litter. These products do not biodegrade easily and can remain in landfills for extended periods. When they do begin to deteriorate, they can release micro and nano plastics that can negatively impact humans, wildlife, and local ecosystems. The agency also notes that polystyrene foam containers and packing peanuts are not accepted in most recycling programs in New York because the foam is difficult to recycle and has a low value.
Background on Previous Regulations
New York has a history of implementing waste reduction laws. The state previously banned the sale or distribution of polystyrene foam disposable food service containers, including cups, bowls, plates, and trays, as well as polystyrene foam packing peanuts, starting January 1, 2022. These measures aim to reduce environmental pollution and promote sustainable practices across the state.
Compliance and Alternatives
Businesses affected by these regulations are encouraged to transition to alternative materials that are more environmentally friendly. Options include containers made from aluminum, rigid plastics, paper, glass, biobased, and compostable items. The DEC promotes the use of reusable, recyclable, compostable, and recycled-content containers and packaging where possible. For more information and resources, businesses can visit the DEC’s website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the new ban in New York State?
As of January 1, 2026, New York has expanded its ban on polystyrene foam food service containers and introduced restrictions on single-use plastic bottles for personal care products in hotels.
What does the expanded ban on polystyrene foam containers entail?
Covered food service businesses are now prohibited from selling or distributing polystyrene foam containers that are not enclosed within a more durable container and are designed or intended to be used for cold storage, including, but not limited to, coolers and ice chests.
What are the restrictions on single-use plastic bottles in hotels?
Hotels, apartment hotels, motels, or boarding houses with fewer than 50 rooms are now prohibited from providing any small plastic bottle containing less than 12 ounces of personal care products like shampoo, conditioner, moisturizers, and soaps/body wash.
Why are these bans being implemented?
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) highlights that polystyrene foam and plastic bottles are significant contributors to environmental litter. These products do not biodegrade easily and can remain in landfills for extended periods. When they do begin to deteriorate, they can release micro and nano plastics that can negatively impact humans, wildlife, and local ecosystems. The agency also notes that polystyrene foam containers and packing peanuts are not accepted in most recycling programs in New York because the foam is difficult to recycle and has a low value.
What alternatives are available for businesses affected by these regulations?
Businesses affected by these regulations are encouraged to transition to alternative materials that are more environmentally friendly. Options include containers made from aluminum, rigid plastics, paper, glass, biobased, and compostable items. The DEC promotes the use of reusable, recyclable, compostable, and recycled-content containers and packaging where possible. For more information and resources, businesses can visit the DEC’s website.
Key Features of the New Regulations
| Regulation | Details |
|---|---|
| Expanded Ban on Polystyrene Foam Containers | Prohibits covered food service businesses from selling or distributing polystyrene foam containers not enclosed within a more durable container and intended for cold storage, effective January 1, 2026. |
| Restrictions on Single-Use Plastic Bottles in Hotels | Hotels, apartment hotels, motels, or boarding houses with fewer than 50 rooms are prohibited from providing small plastic bottles containing less than 12 ounces of personal care products, effective January 1, 2026. |
| Environmental Impact | Polystyrene foam and plastic bottles are significant contributors to environmental litter, do not biodegrade easily, and can release micro and nano plastics that negatively impact ecosystems. |
| Compliance and Alternatives | Businesses are encouraged to transition to environmentally friendly alternatives such as containers made from aluminum, rigid plastics, paper, glass, biobased, and compostable items. The DEC promotes the use of reusable, recyclable, compostable, and recycled-content containers and packaging where possible. |
Now Happening on X
- @NY1 (Jan 2, 2026): New York’s plastic crackdown just got tougher with expanded bans on foam food containers and small hotel toiletry bottles now in effect statewide. View on X
- @News_8 (Jan 1, 2026): One of the new laws effective today includes New York’s expanded restrictions on polystyrene foam food containers and plastic single-use personal care product bottles at hotels. View on X
- @SPECNews1BUF (Jan 2, 2026): As of Jan. 1, 2026, New York has expanded its ban on polystyrene foam food service containers and single-use plastic bottles for personal care products at hotels. View on X
- @HarveyforNY (Jan 2, 2026): Styrofoam coolers are now a thing of the past in New York; proud to have led the bill to ban foam packaging that harms waterways, wildlife, and public health for a sustainable future. View on X
- @SpecNews1Albany (Jan 2, 2026): New York has expanded its ban on polystyrene foam food service containers and single-use plastic bottles for personal care products at hotels. View on X
- @SPECNews1ROC (Jan 2, 2026): As of Jan. 1, 2026, New York has expanded its ban on polystyrene foam food service containers and single-use plastic bottles for personal care products at hotels. View on X
- @itsmejayd63 (Dec 29, 2025): New York’s ban on disposable coolers made of polystyrene foam takes effect Jan. 1, along with no plastic bags; this state is getting ridiculous. View on X
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