Expanded polystyrene is difficult to recycle, does not decompose
and makes up a significant portion of the trash polluting local waterways.
There are also potential health risks; styrene, which is used to make
polystyrene, is listed as a possible carcinogen by the International
Agency for Research on Cancer. The intent of this article is to improve
the environment in Hastings-on-Hudson, as well as the health of its
residents, by banning the use of expanded polystyrene containers.
For purposes of this article, the terms used herein are defined
as follows:
EXPANDED POLYSTYRENE
Blown polystyrene and expanded and extruded foams that are
thermoplastic petrochemical materials utilizing a styrene monomer
and processed by any number of techniques, including, but not limited
to, fusion of polymer spheres (expandable bead foam), injection molding,
foam molding, and extrusion-blown molding (extruded foam polystyrene).
FOOD SERVICE ESTABLISHMENT
A premises or part of a premises where food is provided directly
to the consumer, whether such food is provided free of charge or sold,
and whether consumption occurs on or off the premises or is provided
from a pushcart, stand or vehicle. "Food service establishment" shall
include, but not be limited to, full-service restaurants, fast-food
restaurants, cafes, delicatessens, coffee shops, grocery stores, vending
trucks or carts and cafeterias.
POLYSTYRENE LOOSE-FILL PACKAGING
A void-filled packaging product made of expanded polystyrene
that is used as a packaging fill (commonly known as "packing peanuts").
SINGLE-SERVICE ARTICLES
Cups, containers, lids, closures, trays, plates, knives,
spoons, stoppers, paddles, straws, place mats, napkins, doilies, wrapping
materials, toothpicks and all similar articles that are intended by
the manufacturer to be used once for eating or drinking and generally
recognized by the public as items to be discarded after one use.
STORE
A retail or wholesale establishment, other than a food service
establishment.