Is Styrofoam Recyclable in Chicago

Is Styrofoam Recyclable in Chicago? Here’s What You Should Know

Styrofoam (also known as expanded polystyrene, or EPS) is everywhere — from takeout containers to packaging peanuts and coffee cups. But when it comes to recycling, this lightweight material causes a lot of confusion. So, is Styrofoam recyclable? The short answer: not in your curbside bin — but GreenWay Recycling Services can help you dispose of it responsibly.

🚫 Why Styrofoam Can’t Go in the Blue Bin

Most curbside programs in Chicago do not accept Styrofoam, even if it has a recycling symbol. That’s because:

• It’s made of 95% air, making it too light to process in traditional material recovery facilities (MRFs).

• The material easily breaks apart, contaminating other recyclables.

• The cost of cleaning, melting, and reprocessing EPS often exceeds its resale value.

As a result, most foam that ends up in recycling bins unfortunately gets diverted to landfill.

✅ Responsible Styrofoam Disposal Options

While you can’t toss Styrofoam in your standard bin, you still have options:

1. Drop It Off at a Specialty Recycling Facility
   GreenWay partners with Chicago-area processors to collect and divert foam packaging for densification and reuse. Bring clean, dry Styrofoam — no food residue, tape, or labels — to our location at:
   📍 2100 S. Kilbourn Ave, Chicago, IL
   ☎️ 773-522-0025

2. Reuse It for Packing or Shipping
   Foam blocks and peanuts can be reused for moving or mailing fragile items. Many UPS Stores and local shipping centers accept clean packing peanuts.

3. Ask Your Supplier or Vendor
   Some manufacturers and packaging distributors offer take-back programs for large volumes of Styrofoam.

🌎 GreenWay’s Approach to Waste Diversion

At GreenWay Recycling Services, we believe sustainability is about more than what fits in a bin. We help Chicago businesses and residents:

• Divert difficult-to-recycle materials like foam, film plastics, and mixed waste.

• Track diversion rates for LEED certification or sustainability reporting.

• Keep recyclable and compostable streams clean through education and pickup programs.

💡 Bottom Line

Styrofoam recycling isn’t easy — but it’s possible with the right partners. Don’t let your foam waste pile up or end up in the landfill.
Bring it to GreenWay Recycling Services, and we’ll make sure it’s handled the right way.

Visit us today or call 773-522-0025 to learn how we can help your business or community recycle smarter — the GreenWay.

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