A new bill introduced in the Alaska State Legislature aims to prohibit restaurants from using Styrofoam containers for prepared food. HB 25, sponsored by Rep. Andy Josephson, would also ban the state from using or purchasing Styrofoam products. This move is part of a larger effort to reduce the environmental harm caused by Styrofoam.
According to Ken Alper, an aide for Josephson, much of the data supporting the ban comes from the Anchorage-based non-profit Alaska Community Action on Toxics. Notably, the use of Styrofoam has become a pressing issue in Alaska. Many residents are concerned about the impact of Styrofoam on the state’s wildlife and natural beauty.
By banning Styrofoam, Alaska can take a significant step towards reducing pollution and promoting sustainability. Alper notes that Styrofoam is non-biodegradable, taking hundreds of years to decompose and releasing harmful chemicals into the atmosphere. Moreover, the production of Styrofoam is also harmful, contaminating soil and water sources.
If passed, the bill would require restaurants to switch to biodegradable or compostable disposable materials. However, restaurants that demonstrate affordable alternatives are not viable would be granted exemptions. Certain circumstances, such as food prepared outside of Alaska, reusable coolers, and disaster emergencies, would also permit the use of Styrofoam.
Not everyone is convinced that the transition to biodegradable materials will be smooth. Jonathan Sala, manager of L&L Hawaiian Barbeque, estimates that his restaurant uses around 1,000 to 1,200 Styrofoam plates per week. Sala is concerned about the financial implications of switching to new materials.
Meanwhile, Rep. Josephson is hopeful that the bill will pass through the House and Senate. If successful, Alaska would join a growing list of states and cities banning Styrofoam. The proposed Alaska Styrofoam Ban is a crucial step towards reducing environmental harm and promoting sustainability.
News story originally published by Alaska’s News Source.
