Illinois State Agencies Move Closer to a Bill Prohibiting the Use of Polystyrene Food Containers

United States: Illinois lawmakers have made important changes to Senate Bill 58, which would prohibit state agencies from using Polystyrene foam food containers. If this change becomes law, it will go into effect in 2025, requiring state agencies to make the switch to recyclable or compostable alternatives. This move is a crucial step forward in reducing the environmental impact of Polystyrene foam, and state agencies are in a unique position to lead by example.

Reducing the amount of single-use plastic in the environment is crucial for both public health and the planet. In Illinois, at least 25% of the Polystyrene used in North America is manufactured, including Polystyrene food ware produced at multiple facilities. While implementing this change will certainly have an impact on jobs, it is a necessary step towards a more sustainable future.

Starting from 2026, the usage of Polystyrene containers will be prohibited for vendors contracted through a state agency at any location owned or leased by the state, including the Illinois State Fair.

Polystyrene foam, along with other single-use plastics, has been banned in many countries worldwide. The ban has been partially or fully imposed on the expanded and made-up variants of this foam. In the United States, eight states have already passed legislation to prohibit the use of Polystyrene foam.