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How to dispose of Styrofoam (Polystyrene)

Steps

  1. Check if your local recycling program accepts expanded polystyrene (EPS) — most curbside programs do NOT.
  2. Search for Styrofoam drop-off locations at recycling centers or shipping stores.
  3. Clean food-contaminated Styrofoam cannot be recycled — place in regular trash.
  4. Packing peanuts can be returned to UPS stores and shipping centers for reuse.
  5. Break into smaller pieces before trashing to save space.

While technically recyclable, Styrofoam is rarely accepted curbside. Specialized drop-off locations exist in many cities.