Abinanti Introduces Ban On Styrofoam Take-Home Containers

TARRYTOWN, N.Y. -- State Assemblyman Tom Abinanti (D-Greenburgh/Mount Pleasant) has introduced legislation to prohibit New York restaurants from using polystyrene "doggy bags."

Assemblyman Tom Abinanti introduced legislation to ban Styrofoam containers in New York.
Photo Credit: *Wikimedia Commons*

Frank Mojica

10/17/2015 12:00 p.m.

“Styrofoam causes significant harm to the environment and may be a health hazard,” said Abinanti, a member of the Assembly Environmental Conservation Committee. “We need a concerted state effort to reduce reliance on Styrofoam and encourage more environmentally-friendly alternatives.”

Polystyrene containers often are used at restaurants to package leftovers. Also known as Styrofoam, polystyrene foam is difficult to recycle and is non-biodegradable.

Municipalities across the country have passed similar laws limiting the use of the material. McDonald's announced in September it would switch from foam to paper cups.

“New York should take the lead and prioritize reducing the use of Styrofoam,” said Abinanti. “The health of tomorrow’s environment depends on what we do today.”

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