EPS Insights

Expanded polystyrene packaging is indispensable

Did you know…

EPS protective packaging adheres to circular economy principles.

  • A lightweight plastic material made from 98% air, EPS is an efficient use of natural resources.

  • The environmental footprint of EPS packaging over its lifetime is typically less than alternative materials.

  • EPS is a recyclable, sustainable packaging solution that meets multiple decisive recycling metrics.

  • To locate more than 375 drop-off locations, 30 mail back centers & find out where EPS is included in curbside collection, access the North America Recycling Map.


Did you know…

As an integral part of global product distribution, EPS offers unparalleled quality.

  • EPS provides effective, safe, and secure protective packaging for consumer goods, including appliances, electronics, pharmaceuticals, furniture, and other products.

  • EPS foam insulation is used in building and construction – improving energy efficiency and offering unprecedented strength to withstand severe weather conditions.

  • There is no substitute for expanded polystyrene in harsh distribution environments when transporting essential pharmaceuticals, fresh food and other valuable goods.

  • Beyond packaging, EPS offers incredible physical properties that make it an ideal material choice in hundreds of applications. From highway infrastructure to roofing insulation to sports helmets and surfboards, EPS is an extremely versatile plastic.

  • EPS packaging reduces damage rates and, subsequently, environmental impacts from transportation emissions & manufacturing.


Did you know…

EPS-IA is at the forefront of ensuring sustainable practices to support our environment.

  • EPS-IA is the North American trade association for the EPS industry representing 68 manufacturers in 48 states and provinces.

  • We advocate on Capitol Hill and in the Canadian federal regulatory process to promote the use of insulation and encourage environmental policy development based on data and pragmatic solutions.

  • Our mission is to push forth research and data about the comprehensive benefits of EPS and proactively encourage our members to prioritize circular economy principles.

  • We are proud to represent the North American EPS industry at the United Nations’ Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution sessions to illustrate the importance of EPS and the advantages of using EPS for businesses and the environment.

Essential Uses

  • Appliances

  • Pharmaceutical

  • Fresh Food Distribution

  • Electronics

  • Automotive

EPS International


Working with other associations, EPS-IA has created an interactive map that illustrates global EPS packaging recycling rates. Data was collected from multiple countries and regions to help provide a larger picture of EPS recycling.

See how EPS is being recycled in various global regions with this interactive map.

The EPS industry supports recycling in more than 50 countries. Numerous recycling solutions, including mechanical, chemical, microwave and other processing technologies ensure a strong foundation for consistent growth.