Recycling Polystyrene

Polystyrene is a versatile material which is manufactured into many different products and packaging. The most recognizable forms are Expanded or Foamed Polystyrene that is used to make cups, bowls, plates, trays, clamshells, meat trays and egg cartons as well as protective packaging for shipping electronics, appliances and other fragile items and; Non Foam Polystyrene that is used in products such as cutlery, yogurt containers, drinking cups, clear bakery, clear take-out and produce containers.

PS foam is recycled into fireproofing & construction materials, horticultural products, office accessories, architectural & decorative mouldings and picture frames. As recycled PS supply grows, more end users and markets are taking the opportunity convert this plastic resource into broader range of products.

Once a challenge to ship because expanded and foam PS packaging is up to 98% air, new technologies to densify and squeeze out the air has made it possible for recyclers to reduce shipping costs to end markets dramatically. More and more businesses and municipal recycling programs across Canada are utilizing the new technology to recycle Polystyrene Foam.

Link to the American Chemistry Council’s web site on polystyrene packaging

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