EPS Makers Aim for Greater Circularity

The Global EPS Sustainability Alliance (GESA), an interest group for manufacturers of expanded polystyrene (EPS) aka polystyrene foam, reports that 72 countries recycled EPS in 2023. At least two countries achieved EPS recycling rates greater than 80%.

GESA made the announcement on November 25, 2024, to coincide with the first day of the week-long United Nations (UN) plastics treaty negotiations in Busan, Republic of Korea. EPS is one of six materials recognized by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) as at-scale recyclable.

The EPS-recycling countries range in size from expansive China and Brazil to the much smaller Dominican Republic and Guatemala. Among the 72 countries with EPS initiatives, 54% have reported their recycling rates for the material.

North America, Brazil, and South Africa reported an EPS recycling rate of 31%, and the European Union reported 37%. Several Asian countries have achieved even higher rates. The United Kingdom reported a rate of 54%; China, 46%; Japan, 68%; Taiwan, 83%; and Korea, 88%.

GESA verified the data using multiple sources, including governmental agencies, EPS recycling equipment vendors, and third-party industry reports. Currently, the organization is creating a data repository to support standardized reporting and boost transparency about EPS recycling worldwide.

Applications for EPS include packaging for products requiring shock-and-vibration and/or thermal protection; protective equipment, such as bike helmets; refrigeration components; building insulation; and auto seats.

Primary sources of EPS.

The primary sources of EPS recyclates include seafood boxes, agricultural packaging, automotive components/packaging, and transportation cushioning for appliances, electronics, and furniture.

“Recycling EPS transport packaging is not just feasible; it is already advancing on a global scale,” says Betsy Bowers, executive director of GESA and the North American EPS Industry Alliance (EPS-IA).

“This reaffirms UNEP’s acknowledgment of EPS recycling and demonstrates the industry’s continued efforts and success in spearheading initiatives that contribute to a more circular economy,” Bowers adds.

Reflecting on the fifth session of UNEP’s Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5) — the recently concluded plastics treaty session — Bowers states that “as global leaders discuss considerations like production capping, chemicals of concern and problematic plastics, it’s key they also consider the vital role of essential materials like EPS transport packaging, and the viability of proposed alternatives.”

She adds, “Ultimately, the success of the plastics-pollution treaty depends on embracing practical, scalable solutions that foster real, long-term progress.”

Read more about INC-5 here and explore PlasticsToday’s coverage of EPS recycling here.