NYC Styrene Packaging Ban Kicks In

New York City’s ban on styrene packaging—including both food and beverage containers—went into full effect July 1. Violators are fined $250 for their first offense, $500 for a second offense and $1,000 for every offense after that.

Oregon has banned single-use check-out bags and the use of single-use plastic straws except upon request. The bag ban, in addition to banning single-use plastic bags outright, requires retailers charge for reusable bags, including paper, plastic or fabric. Restaurants can still use paper bags for free.