Help Us Ban Foam in Maryland

Help us ban expanded polystyrene (EPS), commonly known as styrofoam, in Maryland! EPS food and beverage containers are frequently littered or blown out of garbage cans and into our rivers, parks, and beaches. The material then breaks down into tiny pieces, increasing toxin exposure to marine life and littering our beautiful state. The Surfrider Foundation and a coalition of other groups are asking our elected officials for a statewide ban on these products.

EPS is not recyclable. Styrene, a known carcinogen within EPS, leaches into hot liquids such as coffee, which we then consume. There are safer alternatives to EPS already in use by businesses and widely available. As we work to ensure our communities are healthy and clean, eliminating EPS will reduce litter and make our waterways and beaches more fishable, swimmable, and enjoyable.

Take a moment and let your State elected officials know that you support bill HB 109 and want EPS products phased out in Maryland. Please personalize your message for greater impact (you may edit the standard message). Click HERE to take action!

Update: Maryland Governor Larry Hogan declined to sign the bill into law, but did not veto it, allowing the bill to pass into law on May 24, 2019. The law will take effect July 1st, 2020. The Ocean City Maryland Chapter pushed for this bill, with guidance from Trash Free Maryland. See our blog article HERE for more information and photos.