Ban on polystyrene passes Oregon Senate, moves on to House

Stock photo

SALEM, Ore. - “Polystyrene is a threat to the health of our communities and our land,” said Senator Janeen Sollman (D-Hillsboro), sponsor of Senate Bill 543. “This is a step towards a more sustainable and mindful approach to consumption and a commitment to preserving the health, beauty, and diversity of Oregon for generations to come.”

On Monday, the Oregon Senate passed SB 543. The Bill would prohibit the use of polystyrene foam containers and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the sales of prepared food.

The ban was introduced in response to the significant negative impact that polystyrene has on the environment. Polystyrene manufacturing is the fifth largest source of industrial hazardous waste. Polystyrene takeout containers are non-biodegradable, meaning they can take hundreds of years to decompose. They are also a significant source of litter, and can easily break down into small, hazardous pieces that harm wildlife and pollute waterways.

If passed, Oregon would join Colorado, D.C., Maine, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington State in limiting the use of polystyrene.

Ashland, Eugene, Florence, Lincoln City, Medford, Milwaukie, Newport, Portland, and Silverton have already passed ordinances prohibiting polystyrene foam food ware in Oregon.

Senator Dennis Linthicum (R-Klamath Falls) voted no on the bill stating, “The state of Oregon is faced with rampant drug use, homelessness, drug overdoses, and suicidal ideation by our young people and it seems that the best policy that the Senate Democrats can forward is the forced removal of single-serve, clam-shell polystyrene food containers from our restaurants.”

Sen. Linthicum added, “The Democrats have one tactic, which is to use fear-mongering against the public. Their errant policies harm businesses, increase costs for consumers, lower our standard of living in Oregon, and all without bringing any benefits.”

PFAS, known as "forever chemicals," are used in food ware for grease and water-proofing. These chemicals can accumulate in the environment and are linked to health issues such as cancer, immune system suppression, and reproductive problems. PFAS has been found in the blood of almost all Americans tested, as well as in breast milk, umbilical cord blood of newborns, and even polar bears in the Arctic. This bill is a step towards preventing PFAS pollution in Oregon.

The bill next moves to the Oregon House of Representatives.