Polystyrene Recycling Myths
Polystyrene Recycling Myths: Clearing Up the Confusion
Polystyrene, often recognised by its brand name Styrofoam, is a lightweight, versatile plastic used in packaging, insulation, food containers, and more. In the clearance industry, polystyrene is one of the most common materials encountered during house and office clearances, especially after renovations or when large appliances are delivered. At We Clear Everything, we frequently field questions about what happens to polystyrene after it leaves a property. Unfortunately, misconceptions about polystyrene recycling are widespread, leading to confusion for customers who want to ensure their waste is handled responsibly. Here, we address some of the most persistent myths about polystyrene recycling and explain how We Clear Everything manages this challenging material.
One of the most prevalent myths is that polystyrene cannot be recycled at all. This belief often leads people to throw polystyrene straight into general waste, assuming there is no better alternative. In reality, polystyrene is technically recyclable, but the process is more complex than with other plastics. The main challenge lies in its composition: polystyrene is made up of 95% air, making it bulky yet very lightweight. This means it takes up significant space in transport and at recycling facilities, but yields very little recoverable material by weight. As a result, while the technology exists to recycle polystyrene, it is not widely available through curbside recycling schemes in the UK. At We Clear Everything, we work with specialist recycling partners who can process polystyrene where possible, but we always advise customers that local recycling options may be limited.
Another common myth is that all polystyrene is the same and can be recycled together. In fact, there are different types of polystyrene, including expanded polystyrene (EPS), extruded polystyrene (XPS), and solid polystyrene used in items like CD cases or plastic cutlery. EPS is the most familiar form, used for packaging and insulation boards. Each type has different properties and may require specific recycling processes. Some recycling centres only accept clean, white EPS, while coloured or contaminated polystyrene (such as takeaway food containers) is often rejected. At We Clear Everything, we sort polystyrene at the source during clearances and ensure that only suitable material is sent for recycling, reducing contamination and improving the chances of successful processing.
A further misconception is that polystyrene recycling is always environmentally friendly. While recycling is generally better than landfill, the process of recycling polystyrene can be energy-intensive and may involve the use of chemicals to break down the plastic. Additionally, because polystyrene is so light, the environmental cost of transporting it to specialist facilities can sometimes outweigh the benefits of recycling. This is why We Clear Everything prioritises reduction and reuse wherever possible. For example, clean polystyrene sheets or blocks can sometimes be repurposed for insulation or packaging by local businesses or community groups. We encourage customers to consider these options before disposal, and we are happy to facilitate donations or reuse schemes as part of our clearance service.
Some people believe that burning polystyrene is a safe and effective way to dispose of it. In fact, burning polystyrene releases toxic chemicals, including styrene gas and potentially harmful particulates. This is not only dangerous for human health but also contributes to air pollution. At We Clear Everything, we never incinerate polystyrene as part of our operations, and we strongly advise customers against doing so at home. Instead, we ensure that any polystyrene we collect is either recycled through approved facilities or disposed of in accordance with UK environmental regulations.
Lastly, there is a myth that polystyrene will eventually biodegrade in landfill. Polystyrene is a form of plastic, and it takes hundreds of years to break down in the environment. Even then, it does not fully decompose but instead fragments into microplastics, which can contaminate soil and waterways. This is one of the key reasons why responsible disposal and recycling are so important. We Clear Everything is committed to reducing the amount of polystyrene that ends up in landfill by exploring every available recycling and reuse option.
In summary, while polystyrene recycling is possible, it is fraught with challenges that make it less straightforward than other materials. The myths surrounding its recyclability often lead to improper disposal, which can harm the environment. At We Clear Everything, we aim to demystify the process for our customers, offering clear guidance on what can be recycled, what cannot, and how to minimise waste. By working with specialist partners and prioritising reuse, we help our clients clear their spaces efficiently while ensuring that as much material as possible is diverted from landfill. If you have polystyrene to dispose of, trust We Clear Everything to manage the process responsibly and with the environment in mind.