Project Description
EPS is commonly referred to as “foam” – and it’s a problematic material. It’s cheap, meaning inexpensive to manufacture and buy. It’s lightweight: if littered, can blow literally everywhere, including out waterways. If put into curbside recycling bins, it’s crushed into small pieces that become “airborne” at recycling facilities and can’t be captured, much less reused.
EPS has infiltrated our lives via numerous products: foodware (cups, plates, bowls, trays, clamshells); egg cartons; coolers and ice chests; and shipping materials (peanuts, anyone): loose fills and molded packaging.
These EPS products aren’t necessary; they’re inherently wasteful, given there are alternatives, including reusable, durable products.
The Ordinance bans the sale or distribution of EPS products in the City of Los Angeles. “Distribution” is used broadly and encompasses offering, providing, renting, or selling to any person any EPS product. Large businesses (more than 26 employees) had to comply as of April 23, 2023. All businesses were covered by the Ordinance on April 23, 2024.
For businesses that are part of a larger state or national vendor (chain), the employee count includes all employees of that chain, regardless of location.
Project Details
Title: Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) Ban Ordinance 187717
Client: City of Los Angeles
Date Effective: April 23, 2023 / April 23, 2024
