LEGISLATION
Governments at all levels have recognized the importance of the marine debris issue by creating policies, laws, and regulations to address it. While some legislation may still be proposed or in process, this site provides a list of finalized legislative documents related to marine debris.
Marine Debris Research, Prevention, and Reduction Act 2006
Maryland Styrofoam Ban
On May 31, 2019 a law passed for a state-wide ban of all Styrofoam
packaging containers for restaurants, cafes, grocery stores, food
trucks, etc. Takes effect on July 1, 2020 with fines of $250 to violators.
New York City Restrictions on the Distribution of Plastic Straws, Splash Sticks, and Stirrers
As of November 1, 2021, New York City food service
establishments may no longer provide single-use plastic beverage
straws, except upon request. Additionally, food service establishments
may no longer provide single-use beverage splash sticks or stirrers
made of plastic.
Read
more here.
Queen Anne's County Proposed Balloon Release Ban
July 9, 2019 a balloon release ordinance was proposed. The proposed
bill prohibits balloon releases with fines of up to $250 for
deliberate violators.
Revised MARPOL Annex V
Adopted in July of 2011, this document contains amendments to Annex V
of the protocol of 1978, relating to the International Convention for
the Prevention of Pollution from Ships.
City of Annapolis Styrofoam Ban
October 22, 2018 the City of Annapolis banned expanded polystyrene
(EPS) foam food service products (Styrofoam). Takes effect on
September 1, 2019. Violators will be fined $100 for the first
violation and $200 for each additional violation.
New York City Foam Ban
As of January 1, 2019, New York City stores, food
service establishments, and mobile food commissaries may no longer
offer, sell or possess single-use foam food containers such as foam
takeout clamshells, cups, plates, bowls, trays, and coolers.
Additionally, manufacturers, distributors, and stores may no longer
sell or offer for sale loose fill foam packaging (“packing peanuts”)
in the city.
Learn
more here.
New York State Small Plastic Bottle Hospitality Personal Care Product Restrictions
Prohibits hotels from making available to its hotel guests small
plastic bottles containing hospitality personal care products
Restricting the provision of eating utensils, condiment packets, napkins and extra eating containers, and clarifying the definition of third-party courier service.
A law that prohibits food service establishments, couriers who
deliver food, and food delivery platforms from providing eating
utensils, extra eating containers, condiment packets, and napkins to
customers for take-out and delivery orders unless the customer
specifically requests them.