If you’re looking to join the large population of folks determined to make a change, be more “green,” and help the environment, then recycling correctly is at the top of your list. But if you’ve been tossing your egg cartons, to-go cups, and large blocks of packing Styrofoam in your recycling receptacle, it will behoove you to know you’re doing things wrong.
Styrofoam can technically be recycled but is often not. That’s because breaking down Styrofoam is incredibly difficult, expensive, and time-consuming. So, although it contains the recycling symbol and #6, it’s best to keep it out of your curbside recycling bin.
Are you wondering whether or not Styrofoam is recyclable? Do you want to know the correct way to recycle Styrofoam and if there are better alternatives to recycling? Then keep reading. This article covers all of these need-to-know topics about recycling Styrofoam.
Can You Recycle Styrofoam?
If you look at your Styrofoam product, you’ll notice that somewhere on the product is a recycling symbol and a number six. This indicates that the product is recyclable. Sounds pretty cut and dry, right? Not exactly.
Although Styrofoam technically can be recycled, it often isn’t. That’s because recycling Styrofoam requires a lot of pricy specialty equipment that most facilities are not equipped with. Even with the right tools, Styrofoam is challenging to break down due to its low weight and density.
This isn’t the only challenge, though. Because Styrofoam is so porous, it holds onto leftovers with a fierce grip. Think – when you finished your leftover Chinese food, the Styrofoam container still had clear markings of your delicious food. Because it’s not 100% clean – and it would be exceptionally challenging to be cleaned – it can’t be recycled.
The final issue with recycling Styrofoam is that it takes up too much room, making it challenging to transport correctly. And, if mixed in with other items in the recycling bin, the entire container might be rejected by local facilities (due to toxins). Although you may have had good intentions for recycling items, your bin is now destined for a landfill.
How to Recycle Styrofoam (Correctly)
When it comes time to chuck your Styrofoam products, do not stick them in your curbside recycling bin. There is a very high chance that your county does not accept Styrofoam in curbside containers (double-check with your governing officials, if desired).
The better option? Find a specialized recycling center that will take Styrofoam. Consider throwing all your Styrofoam products in a special bag, so you don’t have to make multiple trips to the facility.
You can also ask local shipping facilities if they need any Styrofoam for packaging purposes. Because these companies ship packages daily, they should be more than willing to accept your Styrofoam leftovers (this is especially true if you have a large block of Styrofoam or packing peanuts).
How to Upcycle Styrofoam
Having to drive Styrofoam to a specialized recycling facility can be overwhelming. Not only that, but some areas don’t have local facilities to utilize. If that’s the case, you have another option: upcycle your used Styrofoam.
Upcycling is simply the act of reusing material rather than recycling it so that it can be of use. Think of it as giving your Styrofoam “new life.” Here are some of the best ways to reuse styrofoam.
Reuse for Shipments
Are you planning on mailing any packages that may need an added layer of protection? Then keep your Styrofoam material close – it can be used as a valuable barrier when shipping items near and far.
DIY Some Crafts or Projects
If you scroll through websites such as Pinterest or YouTube, you’ll be met with thousands of interesting ways to use leftover Styrofoam for crafts and projects. These DIY activities can range from simple ideas you can do with your children to more intricate options. For instance, this person made a beautiful outdoor waterfall using Styrofoam (and other items)
Tip: If you’re using Styrofoam containers that housed food items, ensure they are thoroughly cleaned before embarking on one of these fun crafts. The last thing you want is a smelly DIY project!
Use Instead of Ice in a Cooler
Do you want to keep your drinks nice and cold at your next event? Don’t reach for the ice cubes – get your packing peanuts instead. Surprisingly enough, Styrofoam is a stellar insulator that can keep your refreshments nice and cold.
Use as Stuffing
Has your fluffy teddy bear been looking a little skinny these days? How about your fave bean bag chair? If you have an item that contains stuffing and it desperately needs a refill, go ahead and use your Styrofoam rather than more stuffing. It will work just the same.
Alternatives to Styrofoam
Needless to say, using Styrofoam isn’t the best option for the environment. If you want more “green-friendly” solutions, you have plenty of choices. Keep reading to discover how you can make better choices for yourself and the environment.
1. Purchase from Brands Using Biodegradable Products
Always look for brands that use biodegradable packaging and materials. These materials will be far gentler on the environment – especially considering it takes hundreds of years before Styrofoam breaks down in landfills.
2. Go Reusable When Possible
While Styrofoam to-go cups and containers are handy, they’re not great for the environment. Purchase a reusable cup and bring it along for the ride. There are also reusable containers that you can use to take your food items to go from your favorite restaurants.
3. Go Styrofoam-Free
The big goal? Try to stop using Styrofoam altogether. It’s simply not an excellent product for your health or Mother Nature.
Styrofoam Should Not Be Recycled
Nine times out of ten, Styrofoam cannot be recycled in your curbside bin. In fact, it must be taken to specialized facilities with the proper equipment to break it down. The better option is to reuse or upcycle Styrofoam and make a conscious effort to stop using it altogether. It’s not a good option for your health or the environment.