This month's tip is simple but a step that's hard for us to put into action. Styrofoam (Polystyrene) has some benefits. It keeps things hot or cold and it's cheap for businesses to use as disposable coffee cups and trays. But it's a nightmare for the environment. It's very difficult to break down into the raw materials so it's not recycled by most municipalities and it doesn't decompose, so styrofoam is dangerous for ocean and land environments. It's also made from petroleum so it fuels our need for oil.
So how can we rid our lives of it?
First, just say "no" to Styrofoam cups if there are ANY other options. If you use one for your morning coffee at work, grab a coffee mug from your cabinet and take it to work.
Secondly, when you go out for a meal, when doggie bag time comes, ask your server if there any paper containers or just aluminum foil available (with paper being the best option since it's biodegradable and is a renewable resource). The other option is that, if you're going out for a meal where you know that you're going to eat a meal you can't finish, bring along a reusable container to put your leftovers in. It's a small inconvenience but the best option.
Finally, search for local recycling facilities and programs (more information here) that will take styrofoam packing materials and recycle it for further use.
A Few Facts about Polystyrene and Plastics:
- 710 thousand tons of styrofoam is used each year.
- Only 10-12% of those 710 thousand tons are recycled for further use every year.
- There are six pounds of plastic (including polystyrene) floating in the North Pacific subtropical gyre for every pound of the plankton that feed a vast number of marine animals.
We hope these tips are useful! Remember, keep it simple and keep it green! Have a great month!
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