Washington RCW 70A.245 bans expanded polystyrene foam food service containers, packing peanuts, and coolers in phases starting June 2024 to combat plastic pollution.
Under RCW 70A.245, Washington phased out expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam products. Effective June 1, 2024, the sale and distribution of EPS foam packing peanuts (loose fill packaging) and EPS foam coolers is prohibited. Effective June 1, 2024, food service businesses cannot sell or distribute prepared food in EPS foam clamshells, plates, cups, bowls, or trays. The Department of Ecology administers the law and may grant temporary exemptions for products lacking suitable alternatives. The ban complements Washington's broader plastic pollution reduction efforts including the bag ban (RCW 70A.530) and producer responsibility programs. Local jurisdictions had previously enacted EPS bans, many of which informed the statewide approach.
Civil penalties of up to $250 for first violations and $1000 for repeat violations apply under Department of Ecology authority. Warnings precede fines for first-time offenders.
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