Illinois is moving closer to a cleaner environment as Senate Bill 1531, spearheaded by State Senator Laura Fine, advances in the state legislature. The measure aims to prohibit the sale and distribution of food containers made from polystyrene foam—commonly known as Styrofoam—across Illinois starting January 1, 2030. Fine highlighted that while these containers are used briefly, they persist in the environment for decades, polluting waterways and threatening wildlife. Polystyrene contains styrene, a chemical linked to multiple health risks, including cancer and nervous system damage. The bill passed the Senate on Wednesday and now awaits consideration in the House.
“When you take food to go, you may dispose of the containers in several minutes. However, if the disposable container is made of polystyrene, it can remain in our environment for many years. Styrene food packaging contains harmful chemicals that can leach into food, especially if the food is hot or acidic,” said Fine (D-Glenview). “Polystyrene food containers do not break down naturally in the environment, and pieces of these containers are often found in our waterways and aquatic life.”
“Pollution from polystyrene food containers is one of the leading forms of litter in beach cleanups across Lake Michigan,” said Fine. “I look forward to moving Illinois closer to our clean water and environmental safety goals.”
