New York State Seeks to Reduce Electronic, Foam Packaging Waste

New York’s environmental conservation department adopted regulations to limit electronic waste and clear up details for a foam packaging ban, the agency announced Thursday.

Its new e-waste measure—taking effect in January 2023—will increase consumer recycling opportunities, improve e-waste collection, and emphasize producer responsibility, the department’s statement said. Another regulation included clarifications to a recently enacted ban on polystyrene foam, a non-biodegradable substance.

• Details of the ban on foam containers and packing peanuts include prohibitions for their sale, a financial hardship waiver process, and cost comparison analyses for alternatives.
• “New York was among the first states to ban foam take-out containers ...