Starting in June 2024, foodservice products made from expanded polystyrene such as bowls, containers, plates, clamshells, trays and cups will be banned from use.

Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is a lightweight plastic made of small spherical balls that have been expanded and processed. These materials are difficult and expensive to recycle. Because they are difficult to recycle, they often end up in landfills, waste-to-energy plants or the environment.

If you have any of these items in your restaurant before June 2024, use them up before the deadline. The law bans the distribution of these items after the date, even on items purchased before June 2024.

The Department of Ecology will focus on education, resources and technical assistance to enforce this law, but repeated violations can result in a fine up to $250.

There are alternatives to extended polystyrene. Check with your territory manager to find resources.

You can read the law here, and find more resources on the Department of Ecology’s website.