Unfortunately, expanded polystyrene is a type of plastic material that is not recyclable with your residential recyclables in Franklin County. As a result, these items should NOT be put into your residential recycling bin or drop-off container but should be disposed of in your residential trash. Common expanded polystyrene items include take-out food containers, packing materials in boxes, and packing peanuts.
WHY CAN’T THIS BE RECYCLED curbside?
While the technology exists to recycle expanded polystyrene or styrofoam, limited markets for the material and challenges with transportation costs have prevented viable recycling options for residents. (Since the material is so lightweight, transportation costs can be prohibitively high.) You may have noticed that more companies are moving away from polystyrene packing materials to more sustainable options due to these issues.
QUICK TIPS
Periodically, the City of Hilliard hosts Styrofoam collection events. Please check Hilliard’s website to see if any collection events are coming up.
