We are proud to be part of an important step forward in polystyrene recycling through a new collaboration involving the Polystyrene Recycling Alliance (PSRA), Foam Cycle, and the Nashville Department of Waste Services. The initiative expands EPS recycling access for more than 715,000 Nashville-area residents and helps keep valuable material in the circular economy instead of landfills.

As part of this program, Foam Cycle’s patented collection and densification technology has been installed at Nashville’s East Convenience Center, enabling residents to recycle expanded polystyrene (EPS) materials, including protective packaging and clean food-service containers. The collected foam is densified for efficient transport and further processing.

As a recycling and manufacturing partner in this effort, we participate in the takeback system for densified foam, helping ensure that recovered EPS is put back to work instead of becoming waste. By returning this material to manufacturing applications, we are supporting a more sustainable, circular approach to plastics management and demonstrating that EPS can be a valuable resource when properly collected and recycled.

This program represents the kind of collaboration needed to expand recycling infrastructure and increase recovery rates for EPS across North America. This initiative also includes mobile collection capabilities, allowing recycling opportunities to reach universities, festivals, and community events as participation grows.

We thank the Polystyrene Recycling Alliance, Foam Cycle, and the Nashville Department of Waste Services for their leadership in launching this innovative program, and we look forward to continuing our role in supporting a circular economy for EPS materials.

Source:  Polystyrene Recycling Alliance, “Polystyrene Reycling Continues Improving with a Big Step Forward in Nashville, Tennessee” (April 20, 2026).