There is little doubt that we have a plastic pollution problem plaguing the planet. It is everywhere and while there are many ways to clean up the environment, it is imperative that we turn off the tap of plastic entering the world. This is a challenge that might seem too steep to overcome, however, there are ways to solve parts of the problem. Legislation designed to eliminate the use of single-use plastic foam can make a dramatic difference.
In the last episode of my podcast – Episode 18 – Scuba Educational Alliance Ocean Podcast, I discussed a report that was recently released by Oceana (Plastic Foam Needs ‘To Go’). In that report they listed several northeast states including Maine, Rhode Island, New York and New Jersey as having bans on various types of plastic foam. Connecticut is not on that list but it could be. We certainly need states to step up given the current situation at the federal level.
I also reported earlier this year that both the US Senate and the US House of Representatives have had resolutions entered for a bill titled “The Farewell to Foam Act 2025”. The status of this bill would appear stuck. On March 6, 2025 the bill was read twice in both the house and senate and referred to the Senate’s Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation and the House’s Committee on Energy and Commerce. Both resolutions would appear stuck as there are no co-sponsors from the Republican party and that does not bode well for any action on plastic foam at the federal level.
It is time for Connecticut to act. Connecticut House Bill – HB6229 – An Act Concerning a Reduction of Single-use Plastic and Polystyrene Waste is making its way through the legislative session and if passed would take effect January 1, 2027. This bill specifically prohibits
- The sale, use, purchase and provision of certain polystyrene foodward and packaging products
- Prohibits the use of single-use plastic straws, stirrers and sticks
This new law would apply to businesses, state and municipal agencies and licensed food vendors. The resolution also has provisions requiring state and municipal buildings and schools to install bottle-filling water fountains.
As it stands today, HB6229 has been approved by the Environmental Committee and has been referred to the Committee on Appropriations on April 29, 2025.
While it is highly unlikely that we will ever see legislation at the national level regarding plastic foam, states can and are making a difference. For Connecticut, it’s time to say no to foam.