New York Ban on Foam Coolers Takes Effect Soon

Starting January 1st, New York will extend its polystyrene foam restrictions to include disposable coolers.

The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) confirmed that after the new year, food service businesses, manufacturers, and retailers covered under the law will no longer be allowed to sell foam ice chests, coolers, or similar containers designed to store cold items. State officials are urging consumers to switch to sturdier, reusable options rather than the single-use foam products.

New York began phasing out polystyrene products in 2022 when restrictions on foam takeout containers and packing peanuts took hold. Lawmakers originally approved the measure in the 2020 state budget. Since then, restaurants have been prohibited from offering foam food packaging while manufacturers and stores have been barred from distributing packing materials made of the substance.

Disposable coolers are the latest addition to the prohibited list. Officials say the rule is part of a broader effort to limit waste. According to the DEC, polystyrene is one of the most common sources of litter. The material easily breaks into pieces, does not quickly biodegrade, and can persist in the environment for decades.

The material, however, will not be eliminated entirely from coolers. Foam will still be permitted if it is encased inside a more permanent shell, meaning reusable models may still contain it internally even after the ban takes effect.

Further details on the foam ban are available through the DEC’s website.

New York Ban on Foam Coolers Takes Effect Soon