Purpose of Styrofoam

Styrofoam is the brand name for a particular type of polystyrene product. Styrofoam has numerous practical applications, despite being environmentally hazardous.

Packing Peanuts

• Many types of packing peanuts, balls or foam are made of Styrofoam polystyrene products. These help to cushion and protect items that are being shipped through the mail.

Lunch Trays

• Many schools use Styrofoam trays to hold students' lunchtime meals because they reduce the amount of dishes in the school and provide easy cleanup.

Food Containers

• Restaurants also use Styrofoam boxes and cups to serve food or send take-out food for customers. Styrofoam is able to hold food securely while individuals are carrying them or traveling.

Coolers and Cups

• Styrofoam products are also used in creating coolers for outdoor luncheons and as coffee cups at many restaurants and coffee shops. Styrofoam can keep its contents at a steady temperature for a short time.

Considerations

• Although polystyrene products have many uses, they are also bad for the environment. It takes hundreds of years for Styrofoam to break down naturally, according to the National Resources Defense Council, quoted on the website Styrofoam Out of Schools.