Ban the Production of Polyurethane “Squishy” Toys Nationally  and Establish Global Producer Responsibility

Polyurethane “squishy” toys and squishy products are a major, unregulated source of long‑term plastic pollution. These items are produced in the tens of millions every year in the United States, and hundreds of millions globally. They are non‑recyclable, chemically hazardous, and designed for disposal, yet they persist in ecosystems for centuries. This petition calls for:

1. A national ban on the production, import, and sale of polyurethane squishy toys

These products are unnecessary, high‑waste items that generate microplastics and toxic residues.

A national ban is the fastest and most enforceable way to stop this waste stream at the source.

2. Mandatory Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for all polyurethane foam productsManufacturers must be legally required to fund safe disposal, collection programs, and long‑term waste management. The companies profiting from these products should not be allowed to externalize the environmental cost onto communities and ecosystems.

3. A federal classification of polyurethane squishy toys as non‑recyclable toxic wasteThese toys break down into microplastics and chemical byproducts that contaminate soil, waterways, and human bodies. They require regulated disposal, not casual consumer trashing.

4. A global phase‑out of polyurethane squishy products

Once national policy is established, the next step is international pressure. Global production  primarily in China, Vietnam, and other manufacturing hubs  must be regulated through international agreements, import restrictions, and global EPR standards.

5. Transparency and accountability from manufacturersNo one knows the full extent of ecological or human health damage caused by this massive waste stream, and that lack of transparency is unacceptable. Companies must disclose production volumes, chemical composition, and disposal impacts.

Polyurethane squishy toys represent a predictable outcome of profit‑driven manufacturing, disposable entertainment that becomes permanent pollution.

Tens of millions are sold annually in the U.S., and hundreds of millions globally. They have no recycling pathway, no producer responsibility, and no long‑term management. This petition demands national action now, and global accountability next.