Did you know that the
term “styrofoam” we commonly use is actually a trademark name, not the generic
name of the material? It's similar to how we often call toothpaste
"Odol," even though that's just one brand.
In modern times,
styrofoam is frequently used for various purposes such as packaging, food
containers, and even as a medium for flower boards that are often sent as
congratulatory or condolence messages at different events.
Styrofoam was first developed by researchers at The Dow Chemical Company in the mid-20th century. It is made from polystyrene — a type of plastic classified as number 6, which is technically non-recyclable. The real name of this material is EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) or simply polystyrene.
https://www.kanalkalimantan.com/awas-waspada-dampak-negatif-styrofoam-bagi-kesehatan/
The Dangers of
Polystyrene
Did you know that polystyrene takes 500 years to decompose? It's also toxic!
According to the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA), polystyrene ranks as the fifth-largest
contributor to hazardous waste in the world. This is because it’s made from
styrene pellets, which are processed using a chemical called benzene,
known to be harmful to the environment.
Imagine if this
material is used irresponsibly. Mountains of polystyrene waste will remain for
centuries. Besides polluting the environment, this waste will also poison all
living beings — including our descendants!
So, what is the best
solution to address the issue of polystyrene or styrofoam? Is recycling a
viable answer?
Is Recycling the
Right Solution?
https://nusantara.medcom.id/jawa-barat/peristiwa/nN9Jlm3b-27-ton-sampah-styrofoam-per-bulan-pd-kebersihan-itu-sedikit
Polystyrene can
technically be recycled. However, the recycling process is complex and
uneconomical, resulting in very low recycling rates.
To recycle
polystyrene, it must first be thoroughly cleaned. But due to its
lightweight and porous nature, it’s very difficult to clean. This is
also why styrofoam packaging is not recommended for reuse, even after
washing.
The process is even more
complicated than recycling plastic bottles. The cost required to recycle
polystyrene is very high. Many recycling centers or businesses refuse to
accept polystyrene because it’s not profitable.
Therefore, the better
solution is not to recycle polystyrene — but to reduce its production and
usage.
How to Limit the
Use of Polystyrene
- Use reusable food containers
Bring your own lunch box (tupperware), bottle, or tumbler when buying food or drinks. This helps reduce reliance on single-use packaging like styrofoam. - Support and choose eco-friendly businesses
Buy food from restaurants or vendors that use environmentally friendly packaging, such as recycled paper, banana leaves, or biodegradable plastic. - Say no to styrofoam when shopping
When ordering food online or buying takeout, you can specifically request not to use styrofoam. Many food delivery apps now have a notes section for this purpose. - Educate and raise awareness
Share information about the harmful impact of styrofoam on the environment and health through social media, daily conversations, or local communities. - Innovate and support alternatives to
replace styrofoam
Buy innovative and eco-friendly products that can replace styrofoam. For example, using biodegradable boxes instead of styrofoam, or ordering flower boards that are free from polystyrene.
DigiFlora, an innovative alternative to
styrofoam flower boards that maintains the essence and meaning of the message
being sent.
So, although
polystyrene can technically be recycled, in reality the process is extremely
inefficient and rarely carried out. This makes styrofoam one of the most
harmful and long-lasting waste materials on our planet.
That’s why the best course of action is not to wait for a recycling solution, but to start with ourselves by reducing our usage. Let’s take action now — before mountains of styrofoam become a bitter legacy for future generations.
Source:
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/313262843_Polystyrene_as_Hazardous_Household_Waste
