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How to dispose of Styrofoam (Polystyrene) in Maryland

Maryland rules

Statewide ban on expanded polystyrene food containers since 2020.

General 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.
All Styrofoam (Polystyrene) disposal options