Disposing of Styrofoam in Maryland can be challenging due to the statewide ban on Styrofoam products that took effect on October 1, 2020. While Styrofoam is still used in some packaging materials, its disposal requires careful adherence to local guidelines. This guide provides an overview of recycling options, acceptable items, and alternative disposal methods to help Maryland residents responsibly manage Styrofoam waste.

Recycling Options

Recycling Styrofoam is limited to specific facilities and drop-off locations in Maryland. Proper preparation is essential to ensure the material is accepted.

Specific Drop-Off Locations

Emmanuel United Methodist Church

• Location: Laurel, Maryland
• Accepted Materials: Hard Styrofoam (Polystyrene Foam #6), including block foam and food containers like egg cartons, cups, and take-out boxes.
• Requirements:
  • Remove all labels and tape.
  • Ensure the Styrofoam is clean and dry.
  • Packing materials such as peanuts, bubble wrap, and air pillows are not accepted.

Alliance of Foam Packaging Recyclers

• Location: Previously in Crofton, Maryland. While Yelp lists this location as closed, it may be worth checking for updates or alternative facilities nearby.
• Accepted Materials: Hard Styrfoam (Polystyrene Foam #6), typically sent to a Dart Container facility for further processing.

What is Accepted and Not Accepted

Acceptable Items

• Hard Styrofoam with the recycle code #6.
• Clean, dry Styrofoam food containers such as egg cartons, cups, and take-out containers.

Not Accepted

• Packing materials: Items like packing peanuts, bubble wrap, and air pillows are not recyclable as Styrofoam. These can often be reused by taking them to UPS or USPS stores.
• Soft foam: Foam carpet padding and foam-only mattresses are not accepted for Styrofoam recycling but can be disposed of at facilities specializing in other foam types.

Alternative Disposal Methods

For Styrofoam that cannot be recycled, there are other disposal methods available.

Household Trash

Styrofoam that does not meet recycling criteria, such as contaminated or non-acceptable forms, should be disposed of with your regular household trash. Properly bagging the material can help reduce litter and environmental impact.

Community Events

Local waste management departments occasionally hold special collection events for hazardous or bulk waste. Some of these events may include Styrofoam disposal. Contact your local department for event schedules and guidelines.

Additional Tips for Styrofoam Disposal

Proper preparation ensures Styrofoam is eligible for recycling or safe for disposal. Here are a few tips:

• Remove labels and tape: Residue or contaminants can disqualify the material from recycling programs.
• Clean and dry: Only clean and dry Styrofoam is accepted at most recycling facilities.
• Reuse when possible: If recycling is not an option, consider reusing Styrofoam materials for packing or craft projects.

If you are unable to find a local recycling center, consider contacting environmental groups or community centers. These organizations may have additional resources or alternatives for responsible Styrofoam disposal.

Conclusion

Disposing of Styrofoam in Maryland requires a combination of recycling and alternative disposal methods due to the state’s Styrofoam ban. Facilities like Emmanuel United Methodist Church in Laurel offer recycling options for clean, hard Styrofoam, while packing materials and soft foam require other approaches, such as reuse or household trash disposal. By following local guidelines and preparing materials properly, Maryland residents can contribute to reducing Styrofoam waste and its environmental impact.