Create a free Industrial Equipment News account to continue

Maryland Approves Ban on Foam Containers

Some feel it will help fight pollution, but others don't see any potential impact.

Foam Food Container

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) — Maryland's Senate has voted to make the state the first in the nation to ban foam containers for food and drink to fight pollution. The Senate voted 34-13 on Tuesday for the measure. It now goes to the House of Delegates.

Sen. Cheryl Kagan, a Democrat who's sponsoring the bill, says more than half of the state's residents already live in places where foam containers are banned for food and drink containers. She says a statewide ban would be a step forward in fighting pollution and helping to clean the Chesapeake Bay.

But opponents say the bill only covers a small amount of foam material, and will hurt small businesses. Sen. Justin Ready, a Republican, says it's an unnecessary burden that won't do anything for the environment.


More in Food & Beverage