polystyrene

UK-based technology retailer Dixons Carphone has introduced a scheme allowing customers to recycle expanded polystyrene (EPS) packaging at Currys PC World stores.

The launch follows a successful recent pilot programme conducted at 14 stores for six weeks.

Customers can initially drop off only EPS associated with TV packaging, but Dixons Carphone will aim to make other types of packaging available to collect depending on consumer demand and uptake rate.

Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried has begun pursuing a new rule-making process to mandate a phase-out of plastic foam packaging by thousands of businesses regulated by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

McDonald's Germany is taking the next step on its packaging roadmap for less plastic and packaging waste, published in 2019. In 30 restaurants here in Germany, the company is now testing the packaging of most of its products in thin wrapping paper. The live experiment will initially run for two months until the end of September. On site, guests will have the opportunity to give feedback on the new packaging. At the same time, kitchen operations will be tested through the new process during the trial period.

Ineos Styrolution, which has recently launched several mechanically recycled PS products, claims that the material’s easy-foaming properties allow for the production of XPS foam packaging trays.

Chemical company Versalis, owned by Italy-based oil and gas firm Eni, is set to launch a new tray for food packaging under its Revive portfolio.

The Versalis Revive PS Air F-Series Forever tray is made from 75% domestic post-consumer polystyrene (PS) content developed by Pro Food members companies.

The product is the result of the company’s existing partnership with Italian post-consumer products recycling company Forever Plast, as well as a collaborative project with other companies involved in the PS industry value chain.

Cups and food packaging made from polystyrene will also be banned by December 2022, federal Environment Minister Sussan Ley and Waste Reduction Assistant Minister Trevor Evans will announce at the launch in Brisbane.

There will also be a push for councils to unify their waste collection bins into a single, nationwide system.

“This is the first national strategy, one that attacks the issue from all sides and which sets clear targets over the next decade,” Ms Ley said.