So Why is Styrofoam So Bad?
Here are a few facts that you may not know about Styrofoam:
Non-Biodegradable – Styrofoam is resistant to photolysis or the breaking down of materials by protons originating from a light source. This fact, combined with the fact that Styrofoam is lightweight and floats, means that over time a great deal of Styrofoam has accumulated along coasts and waterways around the world. It is now considered the main component of marine debris.
Not-Usually Recycled – Many municipal recycling programs do not recycle Styrofoam because it is virtually weightless which makes it worthless as scrap. The same lightweight property of the material makes collecting it difficult, because even light winds can send it blowing great distances.
HFCs – Styrofoam is manufactured by using HFCs, or hydro fluorocarbons, which have negative impacts on the ozone layer.
Flame Retardants – The brominated flame retardants that are used on Styrofoam are also causing concern, and some research suggests that these chemicals might have negative environmental and health effects.
What Can You Do?
Choose compostable/biodegradable products like Your Green 2 Go!