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Issue Backgrounder: Styrofoam Facts — Why You May Want to Bring Your Own Cup
Styrofoam may keep our coffee piping hot, but it’s also stirring up controversy for its negative impact on the environment. While it offers convenience and practicality, it poses significant threats to our ecosystem. In this article, we’ll explore the technical and environmental aspects of styrofoam, shedding light on why it’s becoming a growing concern.
What is Styrofoam?
Before we delve into the details, let’s address the legalities. “Styrofoam” is a trademarked name for a specific product made by Dow, commonly used in construction. However, the term is widely used to refer to expanded polystyrene foam, like the disposable cups we use or the foam peanuts we find in packaging. Some may prefer the term “expanded polystyrene” or “plastic foam,” but for simplicity, we’ll stick with “styrofoam.”
The Environmental Impact of Styrofoam
Polystyrene is a versatile family of plastics, with various applications beyond foam. However, it’s the foam forms that have a disproportionate impact on the environment. First foamed in the 1940s, polystyrene is derived from hydrocarbons found in petroleum and natural gas. It’s a plastic that can be molded when heated and solidifies when cooled, making it ideal for commercial use.
Expanded Polystyrene (EPS), in its finished form, possesses valuable properties. It acts as an insulator, absorbs shock, and serves as a barrier against common liquids. These qualities make it popular for a range of products, including coffee cups, picnic coolers, bicycle helmets, home insulation, and packaging materials. However, it’s important to note that styrofoam isn’t the only material suitable for these applications.
The Problem with Styrofoam
So, why is styrofoam a cause for concern? It’s quite simple: it doesn’t decompose readily and poses risks to aquatic and marine life. Styrofoam waste often ends up in landfills, which isn’t an ideal solution either. It’s notoriously difficult to recycle and isn’t accepted by most municipal recycling programs. Moreover, the styrene monomer used in its production is linked to potential health issues, including cancer. Even minimal amounts of styrene could leach into hot beverages, raising further concerns.
The Fate of Styrofoam Waste
Let’s explore what happens when styrofoam ends up in landfills. Due to its expanded form, it takes up a significant amount of space. In fact, it’s estimated that styrofoam can occupy around 30 percent of landfill capacity. Furthermore, its decomposition process is incredibly slow, with some estimates suggesting it can take up to 500 years or even longer to break down. This long lifespan and the limited recycling options contribute to its environmental impact.
It’s worth noting that a fraction of discarded styrofoam doesn’t even make it to landfills. Around 20 percent is littered in the environment, eventually finding its way into bodies of water. Unlike organic materials, styrofoam doesn’t biodegrade and can’t be broken down by bacteria or microorganisms. Its stability and chemical composition make it a persistent pollutant.
The Need for Sustainable Alternatives
Given the detrimental effects of styrofoam, it’s crucial to explore sustainable alternatives. While it may seem challenging to find suitable replacements, change is on the horizon. Many environmentally friendly options are available, such as biodegradable materials like paper cups or compostable alternatives. By opting for reusable cups or supporting businesses that prioritize eco-friendly packaging, we can make a positive impact and reduce our contribution to the styrofoam problem.
In conclusion, styrofoam’s convenience should not overshadow its environmental consequences. It poses threats to marine life, takes up excessive space in landfills, and has potential health implications. It’s time to rethink our reliance on styrofoam and embrace sustainable alternatives that prioritize the well-being of our planet.
This article was written by Joseph A. Davis, a seasoned writer and editor based in Washington, D.C. With over four decades of experience covering environmental topics, Davis brings expertise and authority to the discussion. For more informative articles like this, visit 5 WS, a reliable source for knowledge across various subjects.
Image Source: Polystyrene Granules
Note: This article is adapted from SEJournal Online, Vol. 4, No. 15.
