STYROFOAM RECYCLING

On August 27, 2024 Regional Refuse Disposal District # 1 partnered with FOAMCYCLE LLC and became the first Municipal Transfer Station in the State of Connecticut to begin a Styrofoam recycling program.  

What most people incorrectly call Styrofoam is really either one of two materials:

 1. Expanded Polystyrene (EPS), also known as Foam Packaging (e.g., coolers, furniture, TV, electronic packaging) are large foam items made up of 98% air and 2% polystyrene plastic. Foam Packaging is shipped into our homes and businesses from companies across the globe. 

OR 

 2. Food Service Foam (e.g., foam cups, plates, egg cartons, takeout food containers).

Both foam types can be identified by the #6 recycling symbol. 

The Process

Each Foam Cycle container system is equipped a high efficiency Foam Densifier machine that safely chops and heats foam, which reduces its size by removing the air inside of the foam (Foam Packaging is made up of 98% air & 2% polystyrene plastic). The extruded foam is reduced at a rate of 90-1. This foam by-product is a pure polystyrene plastic called an ingot. Ingots have a high resale value and are in high demand, as they are used to make new products