About Polystyrene
Polystyrene is inherently recyclable.
Polystyrene is being recycled today and is well-suited for a variety of recycling technologies, including mechanical methods, dissolution, and advanced recycling. As new technologies continue scaling up that can turn plastic polymers back into their original molecules, polystyrene will increasingly be recycled with other plastics like polyethylene and polypropylene, thereby expanding recycling access and making it easier for the public to recycle this essential material.
This fit-for-recycling feature of polystyrene will continue improving recycling efficiencies and drive recycling rates much higher. With a collaborative effort and an evolving industry, we are rewriting polystyrene’s story within a new, more circular plastics economy.
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Polystyrene is an essential material.
Polystyrene is an essential material used across diverse sectors due to its unmatched performance. From preserving food quality and safety to enhancing medical applications, enabling high quality appliances and electronics, and contributing to efficient building construction, polystyrene is integral to various industries.
Polystyrene has played a crucial role in improving human health and living standards. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the material for use in food contact applications more than 50 years ago, underscoring its safety and reliability.
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Polystyrene is a leading climate solution.
Polystyrene has a favorable carbon footprint when compared with many alternatives. A McKinsey study found that polystyrene, along with other plastics, effectively reduces greenhouse gas emissions over its lifecycle compared to alternative materials. Its lightweight nature lowers energy requirements for transportation, while its insulating properties significantly enhance energy efficiency.