To demonstrate the versatility and sustainability of expanded polystyrene packaging, 18 European companies – that are currently active in EPS raw materials, packaging manufacturing and recycling – recently launched the “Smart Packaging Europe” campaign. Sven Heppes, spokesperson of the campaign, said, “A variety of recycling options, combined with the fact that EPS packaging generally consists of a single polymer, make EPS one of the most recyclable packaging materials available.”

Heppes added, “At the same time, we want to make sure that decision-makers also understand the broader economic, social and environmental benefits of EPS packaging.” The members of the campaign include German chemical giant BASF (Ludwigshafen; www.basf.com), BEWiSynbra (Solna / Sweden; www.bewisynbra.com), Hirsch Porozell (Glanegg / Austria; www.hirsch-gruppe.com), German building materials producer Knauf Gips (Iphofen; www.knauf.de), foam manufacturer Schaumaplast (Reilingen / Germany; www.schaumaplast.com), protective packaging specialist Storopack (Metzingen / Germany; www.storopack.com), Sunpor (St. Pölten / Austria; www.sunpor.at), Synthos Dwory (Oświęcim / Poland; www.synthosgroup.com) and the European association European Manufacturers of Expanded Polystyrene (Eumeps, Maaseik / Belgium; www.eumeps-packaging.eu).

EPS packaging is used for sensitive electronic equipment, white goods, fresh fish, and now, to transport Covid-19 vaccines. Due to its lightweight mixture of 98% air and 2% polystyrene, EPS offers good thermal insulation, protection against moisture and shock absorption, and is thus used in bicycles, ski and snowboard helmets, children’s car seats and life vests, the partners claim.