In the new year, New Yorkers will give up polystyrene foam coolers and similar cold storage containers.
On January 1st, retailers are banned from using or selling polystyrene containers to reduce pollution. The state is asking businesses to switch to a more sustainable packaging option.
A 2025 survey conducted by University at Buffalo found 70% of state residents agreed there was too much single use plastic and see it as a significant environmental risk that must be tackled now.