10/01/2025
Dated 12/30/2024.
Public Law 38-12 or the Polystyrene Foam Container Ban, commonly referred to as the “Foam Ban”, took effect on May 7, 2024, 60 days after the end of the Third Regular Session, 38th Legislature, during which the bill was passed by the Fono and signed into law by Honorable Governor Lemanu.
AS-EPA recognizes the significant reforms and adjustments required by this new law and the Agency has stood by its pledge to support local businesses in the transition from polystyrene foam containers to acceptable alternatives, ultimately benefitting both the community and our natural environment. This was reflected by the Agency’s decision to delay enforcement of the sales and distribution ban until the new year, as announced in the Press Release issued on September 13, 2024 and again on December 20, 2024. This means that all businesses, including stores and food establishments, will have until December 31, 2024, to sell and distribute existing stocks of polystyrene foam containers in American Samoa without penalty. We now have one day left until enforcement of the sales & distribution ban will be in full effect (on January 1, 2025). As a reminder, the polystyrene foam container import ban remains permanently in effect and will continue to be strictly enforced by ASG Customs and AS-EPA.
We thank our partners both in the government and private sector and especially our community at large for their great support in this stride towards a greener American Samoa. 🇦🇸
For any questions or to report any violations, please do not hesitate to call or email us at [email protected].
