Polystyrene, also known as expandable polystyrene, is a thermoplastic polymer that is found in a variety of single-use products It is a lightweight, rigid material that is often used for packaging food and other items. It is also used to make foam shapes and other crafts. Because of its low cost and versatility, it is a commonly used material in the production of many everyday items.
Polystyrene can be recycled, although the process is difficult and not widely available. Fortunately, there are a number of inventive ways to repurpose this plastic and make it into something useful. Here are five of the best examples of how polystyrene can be recycled:
1. Use it to Make Eco-Friendly Furniture. Polystyrene can be mixed with resin and other materials to create sturdy and stylish furniture. This process requires minimal energy, resources, and time and creates eco-friendly furniture without the need for additional drilling or cutting.
2. Use it to Make Packing Peanuts. There are many companies that will accept clean and separated EPS (expanded polystyrene) packaging and turn it into packing peanuts. This is an excellent way to reuse materials that may otherwise end up in landfills.
3. Use it to Create Photo Frames. Used polystyrene can easily be turned into stylish and durable photo frames. Cut the EPS into desired shapes and then use a glue gun to assemble and reinforce the frame.
4. Use it to Make Molded Objects. EPS can be heated and manipulated into almost any shape. It can be used to make molds for pottery, jewelry and other objects.
5. Use it to Make Garden Beds. EPS can be cut into blocks and used to create raised beds for flowers, herbs and vegetables. The material is lightweight and provides excellent insulation, making it an ideal choice for gardeners.
These are just a few of the ways that polystyrene can be recycled and repurposed. By being creative and finding new ways to use this material, we can help reduce waste and create products that are more sustainable.