We take our responsibility as a sustainable manufacturer seriously and make every effort to recycle excess material.
After manufacturing, we return any excess EPS to our supplier to be repurposed for use in common household items. Similarly, any leftover OSB that is unable to be used in projects for other customers is mulched for use in gardens.
At Form Panels we proactively work with recyclers to assist with transportation and collection costs.
Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) is 100% recyclable. Due to EPS being lightweight, transportation costs are significantly reduced.
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During 2009/2010 over 3000 tonnes of EPS was recycled in Australia.
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It has been estimated that the effective application of EPS insulation could cut carbon dioxide emissions by up to 50%
How is EPS recycled?
Tiny grains of styrene are expanded using steam. They are then moulded into shapes or large blocks depending on the application.
EPS is widely used in packaging for the transport of produce, seafood and fragile items. It is also used as a building solution.
EPS is recycled through a granulation process and is then stored in a hopper before being compacted.
The compacted EPS is then melted. pelletised and converted into General Purpose Polystyrene (GPPS).
Products made using recycled EPS include CD and video cassette cases, coat hangers and synthetic timbers.
EPS is inert and non-toxic and acts as a stabiliser when sent to landfill. EPS aerates the soil, encouraging plant growth on reclaimed sites. While EPS does not degrade, it will not leach any substances into the ground water, and will not form methane gas ( a major contributor to the hole in the ozone layer).