ALBANY N.Y. — The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is reminding businesses, organizations, and consumers that expanded waste reduction laws take effect January 1, 2026.
The new rules extend the state’s ban on polystyrene foam food service containers (such as Styrofoam) to include cold storage containers, such as coolers and ice chests. They also expand restrictions on single-use plastic bottles for personal care products at hotels, motels, and boarding houses with fewer than 50 rooms.
Polystyrene foam is a major source of litter, impacting waterways, wildlife, and communities. The material is not easily recyclable, lightweight, and does not biodegrade. Under the updated ban, no covered food service provider, manufacturer, or store may sell or distribute expanded polystyrene foam containers that are not fully encased in more durable packaging.
The ban on small single-use plastic bottles applies to items under 12 ounces, including shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and moisturizers. The measures aim to reduce waste and environmental pollution while encouraging the use of reusable, recyclable, or compostable packaging.
DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton said the expanded restrictions “will further benefit New Yorkers and the environment and encourage a switch to more sustainable containers and packaging.”
For more information on the new requirements, affected businesses, exemptions, or to file a complaint, visit the DEC’s Polystyrene Foam Ban and Small Plastic Hospitality Bottles