Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) is 100% recyclable. Due to EPS being lightweight, transportation costs are significantly reduced.

FACT: EPS is 100% recyclable. During 2009/2010 over 3000 tonnes of EPS was recycled in Australia.

FACT: It has been estimated that the effective application of EPS insulation could cut carbon dioxide emissions by up to 50%

How is EPS recycled?

1. Tiny grains of styrene are expanded using steam. They are then moulded into shapes or large blocks depending on the application.
2. EPS is widely used in packaging for the transport of produce, seafood and fragile items. It is also used as a building solution.
3. EPS is recycled through a granulation process and is then stored in a hopper before being compacted.
4. The compacted EPS is then melted. pelletised and converted into General Purpose Polystyrene (GPPS).
5. Products made using recycled EPS include CD and video cassette cases, coat hangers and synthetic timbers.
6. EPS is inert and non-toxic and acts as a stabiliser when sent to landfill. EPS aerates the soil, encouraging plant growth on reclaimed sites. While EPS does not degrade, it will not leach any substances into the ground water, and will not form methane gas ( a major contributor to the hole in the ozone layer).

FIND OUT MORE: https://epsa.org.au/