Type 6 Plastics

Type 6 plastic is also known as polystyrene (PS), which is a thermoplastic made from styrene monomer. It is often used for packaging and insulation.

Polystyrene is used in everyday products such as food containers, disposable cups, plates, and cutlery, CD and DVD cases, insulation, and packaging materials. It is lightweight, durable, and can be molded into different shapes and sizes, which makes it a common choice for manufacturers.

Polystyrene is difficult to recycle due to its bulky nature, as well as the fact that it is not accepted by lots of curbside recycling programs. However, there are some recycling programs that accept polystyrene. The most common method of recycling polystyrene is through a process called “densification,” which involves compacting the material into dense blocks that can be transported more efficiently. These blocks can then be melted down and reused to make new products.

Polystyrene is bad for the environment for several reasons. First, it takes a very long time to decompose: up to hundreds of years, meaning it takes up valuable space in landfills, and can also end up in oceans and waterways harming marine life. Additionally, polystyrene is made from non-renewable petroleum, which contributes to the depletion of natural resources and increases greenhouse gas emissions during the manufacturing process. It can also leak chemicals into its surrounding environments.

There are several ways to reduce the consumption of polystyrene. First, you can choose to avoid purchasing products made from it whenever possible. This could include bringing your own reusable containers and cups when getting takeout or purchasing products made from alternative materials such as paper, bamboo, or metal. Second, you can also support companies that are working to reduce their use of polystyrene and other non-recyclable materials. Many companies are starting to switch to more sustainable materials, and supporting these businesses can help to encourage more widespread adoption of these practices. Finally you can support people in government who are activating for change. For example, New York City passed a law in 2019 to ban polystyrene foam containers, joining other cities such as San Francisco and Seattle.