New York has announced that select disposable coolers will be banned across the state starting January 1st, 2026.

As the new year approaches, New Yorkers need to be aware of a few things that will change when the calendar flips to 2026. The new year will bring a big change for drivers as the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles has increased its point system, which will affect any driver who gets a ticket. Minimum wage will also increase in the new year, jumping from $15.50 an hour to $16 in the majority of the state, and a popular product many of us use during the warmer months will be banned.

Foam Coolers Banned in New York

CanvaCoolers Banned in New York State

Starting on January 1st, 2026, disposable coolers made of polystyrene foam will be banned in New York, according to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). On that date, no covered food service provider, manufacturer, or store can sell or distribute expanded polystyrene containers, including foam coolers, ice chests, or other containers designed for cold storage.

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The DEC posted the new ban online,

“Beginning January first, two thousand twenty-six, no covered food service provider, manufacturer or store can sell, offer for sale, or distribute expanded polystyrene containers that are not wholly encapsulated or encased within a more durable container and are designed or intended to be used for cold storage, including but not limited to coolers and ice chests.”

 

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CanvaStyrofoam Ban in New York

Back in 2022, New York lawmakers banned restaurants from using single-use foam food containers and manufacturers and retailers from using packing materials made from polystyrene foam (packing peanuts). Starting Jan.1, coolers will join the list of banned foam products.

Products that are made with polystyrene foam usually break apart easily and take a long time to biodegrade. The ban is a continued effort by lawmakers and the DEC to cut down on waste across the state, as polystyrene foam is a top source of litter in New York.

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