State has exempted the usage of polystyrene products in four specific areas under the Environment Management Act 2005.
Polystyrene is clear plastic or stiff foam and its usage has been exempted through a legal notice that was gazetted on January 6, under the authorisation of the minister responsible for the Environment Management Act 2005, Dr Mahendra Reddy.
The Environment Management (Polystyrene Products Exemptions) Regulations 2021 allows for the usage of the polystyrene for cushioning packed products such as electrical appliances, to be used as building materials, provided they are neatly kept and properly disposed, to be used in cooler boxes and as polystyrene sponges and foam mattresses.
Anyone found using polystyrene products apart from the four areas specified commits an offence and is liable upon conviction to a fine not exceeding $150,000 or to a term of imprisonment not exceeding two years or both.
