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Polystyrene

Hard or soft polystyrene packaging

Reduce

You can reduce the need for polystyrene packaging by purchasing products packaging in non-polystyrene packaging i.e. cardboard moulds or biodegradable shells.  Some manufacturers have redesigned their packaging to hold products in cardboard moulds. 

There are alternatives to polystyrene packaging:

  • biodegradable shells (these can be fed into your compost bin)
  • cardboard moulds (recyclable)

 

When you purchase a product packaging in polystyrene, ask the reailter if they take-back polystyrene for recycling.

Reuse

Here are a few ideas on what else you can do with your polystyrene packaging:

  • Keep it to use again when you relocate
  • Break the polystyrene down and refill your bean-bag
  • Place polystyrene at the bottom of a pot plant holder, and it will help with drainage
  • Polystyrene is an excellent insulator.  If you anything you want to keep cool or warm, you can pack polystyrene around it to slow the transfer of energy

 

Recycle

Polystyrene can be recycled.

Where do I recycle it?

 

Disposal

If you are unable to reduce, reuse or recycle the polystyrene, the next best practical option is disposal to the regional landfill through your local refuse collection service.

Where do I dispose of it?