Bend, OR – Starting January 1, 2025, a statewide ban on Styrofoam to-go containers went into effect in Oregon, marking a significant step in the state’s push to reduce environmental impact. The ban covers Styrofoam packaging, including to-go containers and Styrofoam peanuts, though it does not apply to Styrofoam coolers. Businesses across the state are now grappling with the financial implications of the law, which could lead to higher costs for both business owners and consumers.
One business owner, Juan Jose Burgozay, expressed concern about the financial strain the ban could place on his operation. “The truth is, I buy these at a quantity of 100 plates for $80,” said Burgozay, referring to the Styrofoam containers. “These (plastic containers) go for $120 or $130.” With this change, Burgozay anticipates he will need to increase his prices slightly to cover the higher cost of alternative containers. He also plans to display a sign informing customers about the reason for the price hike.
The move to eliminate Styrofoam is part of a broader environmental effort, as many believe that these products pose serious environmental and health risks. Angel Gil, a local customer, explained his support for the ban, emphasizing the potential dangers to health, especially when Styrofoam is used in the microwave. “It was very bad for the health of everyone. Many products still come with it, they use it. Kids put it in the microwave,” Gil said.
However, the financial burden of the ban is significant for small businesses. While the ban aims to protect the environment, non-compliance could result in hefty fines. Business owners could face fines up to $100 from the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) if they continue using Styrofoam, while producers who sell these products to Oregon businesses face penalties of up to $500 a day.
Some business owners are skeptical about the enforceability of the ban. James McNeil, who owns food carts in Oregon and Vancouver, expressed doubts about the effectiveness of such bans, citing his experience with Washington’s Styrofoam ban, which has been in effect since June 2024. “I never had Styrofoam to begin with, just because of the quality of it and the environmental cost,” McNeil said. “But people are still using it today. You can go over there (Vancouver), and that’s been eight months, so I don’t know, I don’t think Oregon’s gonna enforce it either.”
McNeil also noted the unfairness he perceives in businesses complying with the ban while facing higher costs. “It feels unfair to the business owners who are trying to follow the law, especially when they have to absorb the added expense,” he said.
The Styrofoam ban was passed in 2023 through Senate Bill 0543, with most public testimony supporting the measure. However, it was met with resistance from some business advocacy groups, such as the Oregon Business and Industry and the Oregon Restaurant and Lodging Association, who argued that the ban could increase operational costs for businesses, particularly in the food service industry.
Several other states, including Colorado, Maine, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington, have already implemented similar Styrofoam bans. Additionally, Oregon cities such as Portland, Ashland, Eugene, and Milwaukie have previously enacted local bans, setting the stage for the statewide measure.
As the new law takes effect, Oregon businesses will need to adapt to the higher costs of environmentally friendly packaging, while customers may soon see the price of their to-go orders rise. While many are in favor of the environmental benefits, the balance between sustainability and business viability remains a delicate issue for small business owners across the state.
