How to Properly Dispose of Polystyrene Containers
Polystyrene, commonly seen in its expanded form as lightweight, foam-like takeaway containers, insulation, and packaging, is a material we often interact with but rarely think deeply about. Known for being economical, durable, and highly temperature resistant, expanded polystyrene is a versatile product with countless uses. Yet, its environmental reputation remains controversial.
Misconceptions abound, with many assuming polystyrene is impossible to recycle or inherently harmful to the planet. However, in South Africa, a thriving recycling industry is proving otherwise. Polystyrene is 100% recyclable and boasts a surprisingly small carbon footprint compared to other packaging materials. A 2022 CSIR study highlighted that it’s lighter, less resource-intensive to transport, and contains only 4% plastic. In this article, we will discuss, how to properly dispose of polystyrene containers.
Understanding Polystyrene and Its Impact
Polystyrene is a type of plastic made from a synthetic polymer derived from styrene, a petroleum byproduct. Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is 96% air and only 4% plastic, making it lightweight and resource efficient. This unique composition means EPS containers weigh 75% less than alternatives like cardboard or biodegradable plastics. According to a 2022 CSIR life cycle and socio-economic assessment, EPS has the lowest carbon footprint among common packaging materials in South Africa due to its low material density and reduced transportation emissions.
While polystyrene is non-biodegradable, its environmental impact is often overstated. Contrary to popular belief, EPS is 100% recyclable, and South Africa has established a growing recycling industry to repurpose polystyrene into new products. The challenge lies in educating consumers and improving waste management systems to increase recycling rates.
Challenges in Disposing of Polystyrene
Public Perception and Awareness: Many South Africans are unaware that polystyrene is recyclable. This lack of knowledge leads to improper disposal, with containers often ending up in landfills or as litter.
Recycling Infrastructure: While South Africa boasts a robust recycling industry, access to facilities remains uneven. Urban areas like Johannesburg and Cape Town are better equipped with recycling infrastructure, but rural communities face logistical and economic barriers.
Contamination: Polystyrene food containers are often contaminated with grease and food residues, complicating the recycling process. Clean polystyrene is easier to recycle, but the cleaning process requires effort from consumers.
Steps to Properly Dispose of Polystyrene Containers
Identify Recyclable Polystyrene
Polystyrene products are marked with the plastic resin identification code #6. Check for this code on the container to ensure it is recyclable. In South Africa, most expanded polystyrene used for food packaging and protective materials falls under this category.
Clean Before Disposal
Before recycling, ensure that polystyrene containers are free of food residues. Rinse out takeaway containers and scrape off grease. Clean materials are more likely to be accepted at recycling facilities.
Separate Polystyrene from General Waste
Separating recyclables from general waste is critical for effective recycling. Keep polystyrene containers in a dedicated recycling bin to prevent contamination by other waste types.
Locate Recycling Facilities
South Africa’s polystyrene recycling efforts are spearheaded by organizations like the Polystyrene Association of South Africa (PASA). They have established collection points and partnerships with recyclers nationwide. Visit PASA’s website or use local waste management apps to find a nearby drop-off point or curb-side collection service.
Support Community Recycling Initiatives
Many communities run recycling programs or eco-centers that accept polystyrene. Participating in these initiatives not only ensures proper disposal but also supports local jobs and education efforts around sustainability.
What Happens to Recycled Polystyrene?
Once collected, polystyrene undergoes several steps to be repurposed:
- Sorting: Recyclers separate clean EPS from contaminated or non-recyclable materials.
- Compacting: The lightweight nature of polystyrene makes transportation inefficient. Compacting machines reduce their volume by up to 90%, making it easier to store and transport.
- Shredding and Melting: The material is shredded into small pieces, then melted into a dense plastic resin.
- Repurposing: The resin is used to create new products, such as picture frames, insulation boards, lightweight bricks, and even seedling trays for agriculture.
Polystyrene Recycling Success in South Africa
South Africa’s polystyrene recycling industry has made significant strides in recent years. According to PASA, over 6,000 tons of polystyrene were recycled in 2022, with the material contributing to various innovative products. EPS is commonly used in construction for lightweight concrete blocks and in agriculture for durable seedling trays.
Several municipalities have integrated polystyrene collection into their waste management programs. For example, Cape Town and eThekwini offer curb-side collection services that include EPS materials.
Alternatives to Recycling
When recycling is not an option, consider the following:
- Reuse: Clean polystyrene containers can be repurposed for storage, craft projects, or gardening.
- Proper Landfill Disposal: If recycling facilities are unavailable, ensure that polystyrene is disposed of in a designated landfill to minimize environmental harm. While not ideal, EPS in landfills has a relatively low environmental footprint compared to other waste due to its lightweight composition.
The Way Forward
The CSIR’s 2022 study underscores the importance of viewing polystyrene through a balanced lens. While it has challenges, EPS’s low carbon footprint, recyclability, and resource efficiency make it a valuable material when managed responsibly.
Properly disposing of polystyrene containers requires awareness, effort, and access to recycling facilities. By understanding its properties, cleaning and separating it for recycling, and supporting community initiatives, individuals can contribute to reducing polystyrene waste’s environmental impact. With the right practices, polystyrene can transition from being seen as a problem to becoming a solution for sustainable packaging.