North Perth has partnered with Second Wind Recycling, operated out of St. Thomas, ON, for the EPS recycling service pilot project. Second Wind Recycling provides the Municipality with a densifying and removal service of all post-consumer EPS packaging delivered to the recycling depot, and ensures it is recycled by a registered recycler.
Commonly referred to as Styrofoam, EPS is largely used in packaging and food service products. The petroleum based material is composed of 95% air and is not biodegradable. Due to its fragility and low weight, it is a common pollutant in the natural environment. EPS has become even more prevalent with the growth of e-commerce and bulk shipping.
White, rigid, expanded EPS packaging will be accepted. This packaging is commonly from:
- Computers
- Electronics
- Appliances
Accepted materials must be clean and dry. As well, all tape, plastic, stickers, cardboard and other contaminants attached to the foam must be removed.
EPS materials that are not accepted include:
- Take-out food containers
- Meat trays
- Coffee cups
- Disposable dishware
- Packing peanuts/popcorn
- Construction insulation, blue and pink
- Polyethylene and Polypropylene packaging
- Foam bags & wrapping
- Hot tub cover inserts
- Pool noodles