PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Starting next month, Washington businesses and organizations will no longer be allowed to use or offer Styrofoam takeout containers.

State lawmakers approved the law banning the distribution of expanded polystyrene containers in 2021. The Washington Department of Ecology is now reminding companies and residents that the new rule goes into effect on Saturday, June 1.

The ban applies to coolers, cups, trays, bowls, or clamshell packaging used for prepared food. It does not include egg cartons or other containers that hold raw, uncooked or butchered meat, fish, poultry, seafood, fruit or vegetables.

According to the Department of Ecology, many foam containers aren’t recycled because they typically aren’t allowed in curbside recycling bans or at recycling facilities statewide. In 2022, the agency determined there are more than 192 million expanded polystyrene containers scattered statewide annually.

“Single-use plastic foam products are cheap to buy, but their environmental cost is high,” Solid Waste Management Program Manager Peter Lyon said in a statement. “Expanded polystyrene is difficult to recycle and often ends up becoming litter. There are many alternatives available, so switching away from these materials should be an easy step for businesses and consumers.”

The state has notified businesses of the rule for over a year now, and many restaurants have already made the switch to environmentally-friendly containers.

The Ecology department said businesses that aren’t in compliance will be informed of the new restrictions before being penalized. Violating the ban could lead to an initial fine of $250, or $1000 for multiple violations.

Washingtonians are encouraged to report businesses that aren’t adhering to the law.

In 2023, Oregon approved a similar ban that went into effect earlier this year.

Colorado, Maine, Maryland, New York, New Jersey, Vermont, Virginia and Washington, D.C. have implemented the law as well.