DEC is out with proposed regulations to implement a ban on expanded polystyrene foam containers and loose fill packaging, commonly referred to as ‘packing peanuts,’ that goes into effect Jan. 1, 2022. The ban builds on New York’s environmental leadership in preventing litter and reducing waste through measures such as the ban on plastic carryout bags, the bottle bill, and food scrap recycling and food waste prevention efforts. New York is among the first states to ban polystyrene packaging and fill. DEC is accepting comments on the proposed regulations until Nov. 22, 2021.