Restaurants and other businesses in California would have to stop using polystyrene foam food containers in the next five years under legislation approved Thursday by the state Senate to address environmental worries.
Sen. Alan Lowenthal (D-Long Beach) said the foam containers are often used for just minutes by fast-food customers but, because they do not decompose quickly, end up lingering for years in landfills, storm drains and ocean waters.
"SB 568 would help protect the environment, create green jobs and save taxpayers millions of dollars in clean-up costs," Lowenthal said.
The measure, which next goes to the Assembly, was opposed by most Republican senators who said it would hurt businesses and drive up prices for consumers if more expensive alternative containers are required.
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