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Decomposition of Styrofoam

Styrofoam is the trademarked name of a plastic foam made from petroleum, according to the Earth Resource website. This material is commonly used for insulation and protection properties in everything from beverage cups to packing material.

  1. Time Frame

    • The breakdown of this material is time consuming and may be damaging to the environment. According to the Green Living Tips website, a basic Styrofoam cup takes an average of 50 years to decompose.

    Contributing Factors

    • Environmental factors contribute heavily to the decomposition rates of a particular item. Styrofoam decomposition is dependent on the climate where the item is located. Decomposition does not mean the Styrofoam item is completely gone. It may leave behind toxic chemicals in the soil, according to the Green Living Tips website.

    Recycling Tips

    • Recycling Styrofoam is not an easy task according to the Earth 911 website. Styrofoam falls under the plastic No. 6 category. Very few community recycling projects accept this category. If recycling options are not available in your community, look for a mail-in program. Eco-conscious individuals may reuse Styrofoam products around the home.

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