Waste styrofoam is sometimes made into insulating packing peanuts.
Styrofoam -- also called by the generic name polystyrene -- is commonly pressed into solid insulation boards or made into a loose-fill insulation. This insulation is almost exclusively made from new polystyrene. As of 2010, however, a U.S. company is awaiting a patent on insulation that uses recycled polystyrene. If you're looking for ways to use your waste Styrofoam as insulation for your home, you could blow small bits of insulation into your walls yourself, or you could take your polystyrene to a collection center that makes it into other insulating materials like packing peanuts. However, the first option is not recommended, since standard polystyrene in small bits is highly flammable. Polystyrene can emit hazardous gases when exposed to heat. When it is used for building materials, municipal building codes typically require a fire barrier.
Instructions
1. Find a recycling center willing to accept the polystyrene you have. If your polystyrene supply consists mostly of food containers, it's going to be tough for you to find a place willing to accept them. However, if you have block Styrofoam or polystyrene from packing or building materials, you'll have an easier time finding someone to take it. Begin your search by going to the online database at Earth 911. Type in "Styrofoam" and provide your zip code. If the search doesn't turn up any in your local area, it will at least inform you of mail-in programs you can participate in.
2. Clean the polystyrene to remove any dirt or plastic that may have gotten on the materials. Sort out any types of polystyrene that the center does not allow, such as food containers, for example.
3. Load the materials on to a truck and take them to the recycling collection center nearest you. Most major cities should have at least one collection center for polystyrene, though admittedly the options are much more scarce than for other recycled materials. If you don't have a collection center within driving distance, contact the nearest mail-in center to discuss your options for getting the materials to them.
4. Pay any appropriate fees for the recycling of your polystyrene. Some collection centers allow you to bring up to a certain amount for free, and then charge a graduated fee after that. Your polystyrene will be recycled into another material, and could one day become insulation that will heat people's homes.
