Expanded Polystyrene: The Versatile Material Shaping Sustainability and Innovation

Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) is an incredibly versatile material used across a wide range of applications. Its lightweight and durable nature, combined with excellent thermal insulation properties, makes it indispensable in various industries. For instance, EPS is commonly used in packaging to safeguard products during transportation. Whether it’s protecting fresh produce and ensuring it stays at optimal temperatures over long distances, or securing heavy items like refrigerators and washing machines, EPS is a reliable choice. It’s also widely utilised for fish boxes due to its ability to maintain freshness.

Beyond packaging, EPS plays a crucial role in the building and construction sector, civil engineering and is such a versatile material that it even features in stage props for films. As insulation, it significantly reduces energy consumption, keeping homes warm in winter and cool in summer. Imagine enduring a chilly winter in a house without insulation—it’s a scenario that would undoubtedly dampen the festive cheer at Christmas! EPS's energy efficiency and protective qualities make it a cornerstone material in both industrial and everyday applications.

What Makes EPS Sustainable?

There are many misperceptions around the sustainability of EPS but here are some of the facts:

1. Energy Efficiency in Production: EPS is composed of 98% air, making it resource-efficient in terms of raw material use. It also has a relatively low carbon footprint during production compared to alternative materials.
2. Thermal Insulation: In construction, EPS provides excellent thermal insulation, reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions over the lifespan of buildings.
3. Recyclability: EPS is 100% recyclable and widely collected for recycling. It is often recycled into new products for example back into packaging, picture frames, insulation for homes and businesses and more.

EPS is 100% recyclable and thousands of tonnes are recycled every year from the UK. Industry experts have drawn upon existing data to estimate that 66% of EPS packaging disposed of in the UK was recycled in 2023. * This is much higher than many other materials and a great milestone for the industry but the industry want even higher rates to reach a circular economy.

Alongside this, EPS is currently recycled in at least 38 countries across four continents. Recent reports by Conversio and the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) highlight the remarkable progress achieved.

To increase the UK’s EPS recycling rate, reduce the UK’s reliance on exporting waste and to achieve net zero carbon by 2050, it is vital that there is significant investment in domestic recycling infrastructure. Government can utilise key regulations such as the plastic packaging tax and extended producer responsibility to do this which is highlighted in the EPS Group Briefing – Key Issues Affecting the UKs EPS Industry.

What Challenges Exist in Collecting and Recycling EPS?

The sustainability of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) largely depends on the effectiveness of its collection and recycling systems. Unlike materials that are collected through standard household recycling programs, EPS requires alternative collection methods which vary across the UK.

Some local authorities have taken the initiative to collect EPS at Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs). Meanwhile some business businesses for example Curry’s have introduced take-back schemes to facilitate EPS recycling. Innovatively some recycling companies are piloting unique collection trials such as programs launched at universities in Glasgow and Edinburgh showcasing creative approaches to tackle the EPS recycling challenge.

The main challenge is around public awareness as consumers may be confused where they can recycle their EPS packaging as there are no standardised collection programmes. Therefore, educating consumers about where they can recycle is key to improving collection rates further.

What is The Future of EPS Recycling?

To further improve the sustainability of EPS, stakeholders across the value chain are actively exploring innovative solutions. One such opportunity lies in chemical recycling which enables the sector to process EPS waste from construction projects. Even when contaminated with other materials it is possible to recycle it and divert it from landfills or energy from waste and converting it into new products.

The BPF's EPS Group launched an EPS Recyclers Map in January 2025 (pictured above), making it easier than ever to locate facilities that recycle Expanded Polystyrene. Whether you're a business, organisation or local authority, this tool offers a comprehensive list of EPS recycling centres near you, with easy-to-navigate features to find drop-off locations and contact details.  A step forward in reducing waste and promoting a circular economy.

The BPF Recycling Roadmap projects that by the year 2030 100 tonnes of chemically recycled material will be processed annually, rising to 400 tonnes by 2035. With mass balance now accepted in the UK there is optimism that this will stimulate additional investment. However, a clear and dedicated timeline for implementation is urgently needed.

While challenges exist, the material's benefits and the ongoing advancements in collection and recycling practices demonstrate that it can be part of a sustainable future. By supporting and adopting innovative solutions, we can reduce EPS waste and maximise its value in a circular economy.

Learn more about EPS at www.eps.co.uk

* BPF EPS Group Data, 2024 – this figure was calculated by collecting raw data from UK convertors alongside UK and EU recyclers of EPS. Raw data and estimates have been used by industry experts to calculate the total recycling rate.

Like this article? Here's a few others to extend your knowedge further:

• BPF responds to Daily Mail article criticising EPS
• Benefits of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS)
• Moulding Expanded Polystyrene (EPS)

Author:

Angela Fredericks

*Please note that this article is not a press release. Do not use on your own website unless given specific permission from the BPF.