The polystyrene problem

Polystyrene products can't be put into your kerbside recycling bin, but there is a way you can keep some polystyrene products out of landfill.

August 8, 2024

If you’ve been doing a bit of online shopping lately, your items might have arrived packed in polystyrene to prevent damage. That’s great for your shopping, but not so good for the environment. 

Polystyrene is most commonly found in three forms:

  • Rigid Polystyrene (PS)

  • Expanded Polystyrene (EPS)

  • Extruded Polystyrene (XPS)

Expanded polystyrene, commonly used in packaging can be recycled via a specialist recycling centre. It's dry to touch, not very flexible and breaks easily. It usually has the identification marks: 6, EPS, PS

Some products made from EPS include:

  • Protective packaging for fragile items

  • Bean bag 'beans'

Takeaway trays and cups were banned from July 1st 2022

Polystyrene lasts a very long time in the environment and is made up of tiny balls that can break apart. These balls are extremely lightweight and can spread very easily. They are also small enough for animals to ingest.

Where can I recycle polystyrene?

EPS can be dropped off at the Claw Environmental site in Welshpool during business hours, free of charge.

  • Remove any labels and/or tape

  • Coloured EPS can be accepted. Please keep separate from white EPS.

  • Place bean bag beans in a box or bag. The bean bag cover cannot be recycled.

  • Place any small pieces in a box or bag so they are manageable.

Alternative EPS recycling centres

Many local councils are offering EPS recycling at their recycling centres and transfer stations. Please contact the relevant councils prior to drop off as the different sites do have some requirements specific to the location.

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