#28 Styrofoam

Did you know, it is estimated that styrofoam takes more than 500 years to decompose? Styrofoam has been around since 1941 – but most people are unaware of the harmful effects this petroleum-based product has on our population and our planet. How can a product that is 95% air create such a detriment to people and our planet?

Reality of Styrofoam:

Styrofoam is made from a product called polystyrene, which is a petroleum-based form of plastic. Styrofoam is used in a variety of ways; from food packaging to packaging fragile products. A 2014 National Toxicological Program report on carcinogens classified styrofoam as a product which is reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen – and has been linked to occurrences of leukemia and lymphoma cancer.

Facts on Styrofoam:

Over 5 billion pounds of styrofoam ends up in our landfills and waterways each year.
The world produces more than 14 million tons of styrofoam each year.
Americans alone, throw away around 25 billion styrofoam cups annually.
25-35% of all landfill waste is from styrofoam products.
40% of all styrofoam produced is used for food storage.
Styrofoam that sits in landfills releases methane gases that have over 20 times the ozone-destroying potency as CO2 emissions.
Styrofoam breaks down into smaller particles that marine animals can easily mistake for food.
Styrene, a component of polystyrene, is a harmful chemical that can leach into food and drink.
Less than 1% of styrofoam is recycled.

Tier 1: Global Goodness

Simply say “no” to products packaged in styrofoam.
The majority of eco-friendly companies have chosen not to use styrofoam in their packaging.
Purchase a reusable travel cup. Stainless steel or glass cups are a great alternative to to-go cups.
If eating out, take your own glassware – or simply request a piece of aluminum foil instead of a styrofoam box.

Tier 2: Planet Protector

All of Tier 1.
Buy Used. Need a new tv or computer? Look online, or at a used goods store to see if you can find the model you’re looking for. You will save the pesky packaging – and most likely a few dollars.
Check with your local UPS store about styrofoam recycling. Many times they will recycle styrofoam or connect you with a company who will dispose of it safely for you.
Go to https://earth911.com for local recycling options.

Tier 3: Earth Angel

All of Tiers 1 & 2.
Repurpose it. Need to make an artificial flower arrangement? Want to insulate a dog house? Look online for creative ways to repurpose your styrofoam.
Ask your local eateries to use eco-friendly packaging.
If styrofoam isn’t banned in your state or county, lobby Congress to ban styrofoam completely. Change can happen when individuals work together for a common cause. Go to https://storyofstuff.org/blog/styrofoam-bans-are-sweeping-across-the-nation/ to see which areas have current bans on styrofoam.
Choose to be an Ambassador for Change, and always Spread Loveand Spread Light.