Polystyrene Education

Effective January 1, 2018, the City of Florence joined over 60 other local jurisdictions in being a nearly polystyrene foam (PSF) free community. 

Businesses and organizations such as grocery stores, restaurants, food vendors, government agencies, and non-profits had three months to deplete their supply of foam cups, bowls, plates, trays, and other PSF food and beverage containers before the ban.  Starting April 1, 2018 these containers were not available for purchase in the city, and they were not used to distribute things in the city such as food or bait.  The one exception being raw meat intended for human consumption.  This action does NOT include ice chests and non-food packaging such as shipping peanuts and block foam.  The action also does not prohibit possession if purchased in another location outside Florence.

There are potential benefits, both locally and globally, of using biodegradable alternatives to foam. The primary motivation is to reduce foam litter in and around the Florence area, especially in our lakes, creeks, and ocean beaches. Other potential benefits include reducing the costs to process recycling at recovery facilities due to foam contamination as it is not recyclable in our area.  It could also reduce harm to wildlife and improve human health.  Many other cities such as Portland and Medford have regulations similar to those adopted by Florence.

There are alternatives to PSF containers such as cups and containers made from paper, sugarcane, starches, palm leaf, polylactic acid, polyethylene, or polypropylene.  The decision of which material to use depends on the type and temperature of food being packaged.  The City has provided education to businesses to assist them in finding alternatives to PSF.

Any questions can be directed to the Environmental Management Advisory Committee at 250 Highway 101, or Wendy Farley Campbell at 541-997-8237 or wendy.farleycampbell@ci.florence.or.us.