Maine bans Styrofoam

Maine has become the first state in the U.S. to ban Styrofoam, also known as polystyrene foam, a petroleum-based plastic for food and beverages.

According to Pacific Standard, the official ban will make it illegal for restaurants to sell or distribute the containers (such as bowls, plates, cups, trays and cartons), with penalties of up to $100 in fines. In addition, grocery stores and other businesses will be prohibited from using the containers.

However, there are exceptions: Hospitals, seafood shippers and state-funded meals-on-wheels programs will still be allowed to use Styrofoam.

Maryland, Oregon, Vermont, and Connecticut are also considering polystyrene (styrofoam) bans as resistance to single-use containers increases, according to the article.

The ban is to take effect on Jan. 1, 2021.