New Regulations Among U.S. States Target Single-Use Plastic in Hotels

In a growing effort to reduce plastic waste, states like New York, Illinois, and Washington have introduced legislation banning the use of small single-use plastic bottles for personal care products in hotels. These changes directly impact the packaging and cosmetics industries, requiring innovative solutions to meet new sustainability standards.

Key Highlights of the Legislation:

• Scope: Hotels are prohibited from providing small single-use plastic bottles (e.g., shampoos, conditioners, body washes, lotions) to guests.
• Compliance Deadlines:
  • For hotels with 50 or more rooms: New York (January 1, 2024), Washington (January 1, 2025), Illinois (July 1, 2025).
  • For hotels with fewer than 50 rooms: New York (January 1, 2025), Washington (January 1, 2026), Illinois (January 1, 2026).
• Accessibility: Washington State includes exceptions for guests with mobility or accessibility challenges, allowing them to request single-use plastic toiletries.

Implications for the Packaging and Cosmetics Industry:

This wave of regulations among U.S. states calls for the cosmetics and packaging industries to pivot toward sustainable alternatives. Transitioning to refillable dispensers, biodegradable materials, or recyclable packaging is now essential for compliance and aligning with eco-conscious consumer expectations.

Next Steps:

Packaging and cosmetics companies should proactively collaborate with hotel clients to develop compliant, sustainable product offerings. Early compliance will prevent penalties and position brands as leaders in environmental stewardship.

As more states join this movement, the push for sustainable practices underscores the need for innovative solutions that reduce environmental impact while maintaining guest satisfaction.