As a leader in polystyrene foam recycling, StyroCycle is dedicated to promoting sustainable practices and reducing waste. One of the most pressing issues in waste management today is the disposal of polystyrene. It is a material that is often misunderstood in terms of its recyclability. In this blog, we delve into the types of polystyrene, their applications, and the recycling processes for each. We focus specifically on what we handle at our StyroCycle sites.
What is Polystyrene, and How is it Made?
Polystyrene is a synthetic polymer made from styrene monomers, a liquid hydrocarbon derived from petroleum or natural gas. Polystyrene is widely used across various industries due to its versatility and low cost. There are three main types of polystyrene, each with distinct manufacturing processes and applications:
- Rigid Polystyrene (PS)
- Expanded Polystyrene (EPS)
- Extruded Polystyrene (XPS)
While all these types of polystyrene share a common origin, they are used in different products. Furthermore, the recyclability varies based on their structure and usage.
Rigid Polystyrene (PS): Not Recyclable at StyroCycle
Rigid Polystyrene (PS) is commonly used for disposable products such as plastic cutlery, yogurt containers, CD cases, and certain packaging materials. It’s a hard, brittle plastic that can be shaped into various forms for everyday use. Unfortunately, rigid polystyrene is not commonly accepted for recycling at most facilities, including StyroCycle. This is to the different processes and equipment required to recycle this material.
Some local government recycling recovery centers and private facilities accept certain rigid polystyrene items (find out which ones here). However, not widely recycled due to the costs and infrastructure challenges involved. However, many manufacturers and environmental advocates are pushing for alternatives, such as biodegradable materials, to replace rigid polystyrene in food service and packaging. Fortunately, we should see less food packaging made from Rigid Polystyrene (PS) circulating through our waste systems in the future. Single-use plastic bans in operation across Australia has seen the distribution and selling if these items outlawed.
Eco Tip: Where possible, opt for eco-friendly cutlery or use regular cutlery that can be washed and reused. By avoiding single-use plastics, you can reduce your waste footprint.
Expanded Polystyrene (EPS): 100% Recyclable at StyroCycle
Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) is one of the most well-known types of polystyrene, used extensively in product packaging, construction materials, and within the agriculture and seafood industries. EPS is lightweight yet durable, and has excellent thermal efficiency. These features make it ideal for protecting fragile items during transport, and within some construction products.
EPS is 100% recyclable at StyroCycle. Our process involves granulating or shredding clean EPS waste which are then pelletised, and converted back into raw materials. This raw material is then used as feedstock to create new products, such as XPS (extruded polystyrene) boards. This means that the reliance on virgin, petroleum-based raw materials is drastically reduced. One of the recycling members, Foamex, which is the only Australian-based manufacturer of XPS now uses up to 90% recycled content from the EPS post-consumer packaging collected from StyroCycle bins. It is widely used in construction as an under-slab and perimeter-slab insulator, improving the thermal efficiency of homes and commercial buildings, and even in caravans and spa covers!
The Impact of Recycling Expanded Polystyrene (EPS)
Recycling EPS packaging is crucial because it helps divert a significant amount of waste from landfill. Upward of 90% of the expanded polystyrene packaging that comes into Australia is imported. The exact figures are difficult to determine since it is widely used as the preferred protective packaging for so many household. These items include furniture, outdoor barbeques, appliances, electronics, and whitegoods. Given that EPS is mostly air and bulky, it takes up a large amount of space in landfills because it takes time to break down. Recycling efforts like ours prevent this buildup and contribute to a more circular economy, where materials are continuously re-manufactured into new products instead of being discarded after a single use.
Interesting Fact: The EPS used in packaging your new television or refrigerator can be recycled and turned into eco-friendly building materials that improve the thermal efficiency of homes!
Extruded Polystyrene (XPS): A Special Case
Extruded Polystyrene (XPS) is manufactured by pushing melted polystyrene through a die, where it is then expanded and shaped. Unlike EPS, XPS is more rigid and dense, making it ideal for high-load-bearing applications like under-slab and perimeter insulation in buildings, as well as use in cold storage facilities and cool rooms.
While XPS is not recyclable at StyroCycle, many manufacturers have take-back programs, allowing builders and contractors to return excess or unused XPS for recycling directly to the manufacturer. This closed-loop recycling process is essential for ensuring that even the waste from non-recyclable polystyrene types is repurposed sustainably. Choosing a local XPS manufacturer with a take-back program not only supports Australian-made products but also promotes the responsible use of resources in the construction industry.
For businesses looking to recycle XPS, we recommend researching manufacturers that offer product stewardship programs, or partnering with organizations that can assist in reducing construction waste.
Great News: XPS can be created from the clean expanded polystyrene (EPS) packaging that you recycle with StyroCycle. This drastically reduces the reliance on petroleum-based raw materials.
Polystyrene and Waste Management in Australia
Australia is grappling with a plastic waste crisis. Polystyrene foam has long been a problematic material in terms of collection and disposal, despite the fact that it is 100% recyclable and very easy to recycle. It’s used extensively in packaging imported items, contributing significantly to the plastic waste problem. In response, the Australian government has set forth an action plan to phase out certain types of plastic packaging.
This plan, which has been widely supported by environmental groups, aims to reduce the volume of plastic waste entering landfills and oceans. However, the reliance on voluntary participation from industries has been a point of criticism. Many advocates are pushing for stricter regulations and deadlines to ensure that these goals are met.
The Australian government has also pledged support for global efforts to combat plastic pollution. This includes its participation in the upcoming United Nations treaty on marine plastic. While the transition away from polystyrene food packaging is in progress, EPS remains essential for specific applications. These include construction prducts, heavy items above 45kgs, and temperature-sensitive shipments like seafood and fresh produce. These uses highlight the importance of distinguishing between necessary polystyrene products and single-use plastics that can be easily replaced with alternatives.
Want to talk about how we can assist in recycling EPS waste within your business?. Contact us for polystyrene foam recycling services. #reducereuserecycle