Why Is Styrofoam Bad For The Environment?

Boro-Wide Recycling Corp.

Maspeth, NY 718-416-1656

www.BoroWideRecycling.com

In case you haven't heard, as of July 1, New York City manufacturers and suppliers will be prohibited from using and/or selling styrofoam items and packaging. Why? After compiling some research, the City of New York Department of Sanitation found that styrofoam lacks recyclable qualities, making it harmful to the environment.

To follow up with the findings that recycling styrofoam poses a threat to our planet, we've expanded on the topic to determine why else styrofoam is a cause for concern among environmentalists:

1. When styrofoam is first produced, approximately 57 chemical by-products are emitted into the air. Therefore, the moment it is created, our air begins to be polluted.
2. Petroleum is required for styrofoam to be made. In addition to the fact that petroleum is a non-sustainable resource, meaning it is not replenished at the same rate in which it is used, it is also a source of pollution when it is first created.
3. By nature, styrofoam is not biodegradable and it floats. That means it can stay in landfills forever or wind up in our waters. Since recycling is not a feasible option for this material, that which is disposed consumes too much space in our landfills or becomes damaging to marine life.

For more information about styrofoam and why it isn't one of earth's best friends, click here.  

At Boro Wide Recycling, we work to keep our planet safe by providing comprehensive recycling services to commercial and residential customers. Join us in our efforts! Contact us to learn how we can help you in your recycling efforts, and don't forget to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to stay up to date with the latest news in recycling efforts and eco-friendly tips.