Effective Recycling Of Expanded Polystyrene Minimizes Effect On The Environment
Expanded polystyrene is also known by its acronym of EPS. It is a robust material that consists of closed cells. The material takes the form of white foam and consists of expanded beads. The foam is used for various reasons including that of insulation and packing to prevent damage to products shipped in carton boxes.
The expanded polystyrene sheets are used in building and construction industries. One of the benefits of using EPS as building insulation is that it can be used without the need to create fire walls although it is necessary to create thermal walls.
EPS is made from non-renewable chemicals and as such can take many years to break down if left in the environment. Even with such characteristics expanded polystyrene is commonly used because of hygiene and lightweight features making the material ideal not only for packaging, but also for serving of foods and beverages. Air makes up the majority of EPS while only around five percent consists of polystyrene foam.
Recycling of EPS
Because expanded polystyrene is so light, it is difficult to collect and transport the material in the original form for the purpose of recycling. As such it must be compacted to ensure a higher density if it is to be recycled. Once compact it becomes economically viable to recycle rather than dispose. Many countries around the world already have EPS recycle programs in place. Some countries such as Germany have laws in place to ensure recycling of EPS. Specific points have been established where collection of the material for recycling purposes can take place.
Why Recycle EPS?
Expanded polystyrene, as mentioned above, is not biodegradable. The material is, however, rather stable. The oceans are filled with EPS waste which is harmful to the marine life. Not only is the waste visually unattractive, it also poses a danger to sea animals consuming such. The ozone depletion effects must furthermore be considered in addition to the contribution to global warming.
Benefits of EPS Recycling
At this stage not enough is done to ensure complete recycling of expanded polystyrene products. Apart from protecting the environment, recycling of EPS also holds economical benefits. Many products can be made from recycled polystyrene including concrete forms, packaging materials and beverage holders.
EPS can be transformed into small fillers which can be used in other foam products and can be grinded into a powder form. The powder form is what the construction industry uses in the filling in concrete.
Polystyrene Packaging Council Role
The council was formed in 2007 specifically to provide information, guidance and control to ensure effective collection and recycling of expanded and other polystyrene and thereby the reduction of the carbon footprint associated with EPS. The idea is not to replace polystyrene as it is widely used in the areas already mentioned and the making as well as recycling and distribution of the product create jobs. The aim is to minimize the environmental effects of using the product.
Contact us for more information about our role in recycling expanded polystyrene and for guidance regarding responsible recycling and usage of the material.
