Prince George’s County considers banning polystyrene products

Following the lead of D.C. and Montgomery County, Prince George’s County is considering banning polystyrene (better know to everyone as Styrofoam). D.C. and Montgomery County’s bans on Styrofoam products will take officially take effect in January 2016. Under Prince George’s County’s jurisdiction, the law would take effect in 2017. A special exception would be made in the case that food and beverage containers would have to be filled and sealed outside of the county. The same exemption would apply to parcels with packing foam mailed from or purchased outside the county area. Julie Lawson, with Trash Free Maryland, stated that polystyrene foam poses a threat to the environment. Anacostia River keeper Mike Bolinder added that tiny Styrofoam particles are a big part of the problem when it comes to trash in waterways. The Prince George’s County Council is expected to make a decision on the proposed ban this month.