In response to increasing concerns about pollution, Tampa's City Council passed a resolution in September 2020 to limit the use of polystyrene (styrofoam) cups and single-use #plastics on city properties and at major events. Environmentalist groups hailed the decision; however, their celebration was short-lived.

Florida law preempts cities from passing their bans on plastics. This means that any local ordinances banning plastic products cannot legally be enforced, as the Florida Third District Court of Appeal ruled in August 2019. For this reason, Tampa's ban on polystyrene and single-use plastics was thrown out after being ruled unconstitutional.

Tampa Councilman Guido Maniscalco, who promoted the resolution to ban plastics, found the cause worthwhile because "styrofoam in the environment outlives us." He encouraged the residents of the city to think long-term when it comes to protecting the environment. Non-recyclable items, including most plastics, are frequently littered and added to the garbage in landfills, causing great harm to the #environment.

Some believe that Florida's cities should have the ability to pass resolutions banning the use of plastic and styrofoam within their city limits. They want local residents, rather than the state, to decide what should happen in their community. Other conditions, such as California, have laws that allow cities the freedom to pass their ordinances regarding environmental protection.  

Conversely, some people are against allowing cities to place bans on plastic materials. They say that the economic aspects of plastic products need to be considered; for instance, single-use plastic tableware is much more affordable for restaurant owners to provide than reusable options. Companies are already struggling to stay in business after the most economically devastating hurricane in Florida's history, they are still suffering the economic fallout of the Covid-19 pandemic, and the last thing they need is an additional financial burden. 

The question up for debate: Should Tampa be allowed to ban plastics and styrofoam at major events on city property?