The purpose of this law is to improve the environment in the Village of Rye Brook by discouraging the use of polystyrene products which are cost-prohibitive to recycle and are not biodegradable. Polystyrene is a petroleum-based plastic that takes thousands of years to break down, eventually releasing toxins into the environment. This legislation continues Rye Brook’s goal to protect the environment by converting our “disposable” habit to a “reusable” one. Polystyrene food containers are also a health risk, as the chemicals contained in the packaging can leach into food.