Expanded polystyrene, colloquially called polystyrene or white cork, is a material widely used in construction, packaging and industrial sectors for its insulating properties, versatility, good shock absorption, light weight and low cost. However, its management as waste poses significant challenges in environmental terms.
In this article we will take an in-depth look at the importance of recycling polystyrene, how it is recycled correctly and the key role of companies like Polivas in promoting a circular economy in Mallorca.
What is polystyrene and why is it recyclable?
Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is a foamed plastic material made up of 98% air and 2% expanded polystyrene. This characteristic gives it a high level of lightness and excellent thermal and acoustic insulation properties.
Contrary to what many believe, polystyrene or polystyrene is 100% recyclable, both mechanically and chemically. The main challenge is not the recyclability of the material, but its collection and correct classification, given its volume and low weight, which make it difficult to manage in large quantities if it is not properly compacted.Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is a foamed plastic material made up of 98% air and 2% expanded polystyrene. This characteristic gives it a high level of lightness and excellent thermal and acoustic insulation properties.
Methods for recycling polystyrene
- Mechanical recycling
Mechanical recycling is the most common process for managing expanded polystyrene waste in construction and packaging applications. EPS is shredded to reduce its volume and then compacted into dense blocks for easy transport. These blocks can be used to manufacture:
- New EPS products (EPS blocks, slabs, technical packaging).
- Recycled building materials such as XPS panels.
- Plastic components for furniture and industrial products.
- Chemical recycling
Chemical recycling allows expanded polystyrene to be broken down into its basic polymers by dissolution processes. This method is more expensive, but recovers the material in a high purity state, suitable for more demanding uses such as electronic components or new polymers.
- Compaction and energy recovery
When material recovery is not feasible, expanded polystyrene can be compacted and sent to energy recovery plants, where it is converted into a source of thermal or electrical energy, always under strict environmental controls.
Where to recycle polystyrene correctly?
In Spain, the management of polystyrene recycling depends on the type of waste:
- Expanded polystyrene packaging (boxes, trays, fillers): should be deposited in the yellow bin, as indicated by Ecoembes.
- Bulky EPS waste (construction, industrial packaging): collection must take place at municipal collection points or through authorised waste managers.
- Remains of building work (vaults, EPS insulation): managed by companies specialising in construction and demolition waste (CDW), in accordance with current regulations.
In Mallorca, it is essential to collaborate with local recycling centres and approved waste managers to ensure proper treatment.
Advantages of recycling polystyrene
Recycling polystyrene has multiple environmental and economic benefits:
- Reduction of landfill waste: EPS can take hundreds of years to degrade if not properly managed.
- Resource and energy savings: recycling EPS reduces the need to produce virgin polystyrene.
- Lower carbon footprint: recycling avoids CO₂ emissions from the production of new plastics.
- Promoting the circular economy: by reincorporating recycled EPS into new products, the life cycle of the material is closed.
Polivas commitment to polystyrene recycling
At Polivas, we are aware of the importance of responsibly managing the expanded polystyrene or polystyrene waste generated in construction. That is why:je of polystyrene
- We produce recyclable EPS with low environmental impact.
- We encourage the use of recycled materials in our manufacturing processes.
- We advise our clients on the correct management and recycling of polystyrene products.
- We work with local waste managers to ensure traceability and effective recycling of our products.
Conclusion
Recycling polystyrene is a necessity to reduce the environmental impact of construction and industry. Although polystyrene is 100% recyclable, its correct collection and treatment are key to take advantage of its benefits in a circular economy.
At Polivas, we lead sustainable solutions with EPS in Mallorca, promoting recyclable products and responsible processes. If you would like more information on how to manage polystyrene waste or need advice for your projects, please contact our team.