A ban for polystyrene foam

Lawmakers in New York City introduced a bill Wednesday that would ban the sale of polystyrene foam foodservice products. The proposal is supported by Mayor Bloomberg and his administration, but has many others in the restaurant community concerned about its impact.

“A ban in New York City would cost businesses, consumers and taxpayers millions of dollars, as well as threaten jobs in the restaurant industry, in upstate manufacturing plants, and in companies that reuse foam in the greater metropolitan area,” said Peter Vallone, NYC City Council member. “Foam can and should be recycled, and I urge the Mayor to work with the council to explore this option instead of a ban.”

Local restaurant owners joined business leaders at a press conference Wednesday City Hall to express concern about the effect of a ban on their businesses and bottom line and encourage the city to explore a recycling initiative.