Alliance of Foam Packaging Recyclers

While polystyrene foam — commonly known as Styrofoam — is actually recyclable, most communities do not accept it in their programs because it is not cost effective for them to do so. Unfortunately, that means your easiest option is to trash it, meaning landfill space is being wasted unnecessarily.
Thankfully, there’s another way. The industry group for manufacturers of the stuff runs the Alliance of Foam Packaging Recyclers, which offers a good option for consumers who don’t mind a little bit of work to do something nice for the environment.
Realistically, this process could not be any easier. You basically just take your Styrofoam to their office, and drop it off just inside the back door (the one marked «Suite 201»).
I called ahead to ask for details, and here’s what they told me:
— Remove any tape, stickers, or other debris. It’s got to be clean, so take-​out food containers are probably a no-​go. Think more along the lines of packaging for electronics, furniture, packing peanuts — things like that.
— Break down large pieces and put them in a plastic bag. (I used kitchen trash bags, which were a little small but got the job done.)
— Large, clear bags and twist-​ties are available in a bin mounted on the wall next to the door if you need them and don’t mind breaking down/​bagging the stuff in their parking lot.
Although the hours are 9:00 am to 5:00 pm weekdays, you can leave bagged Styrofoam right outside the door after-​hours. If it’s windy, you might consider using a twist-​tie to attach the bag to the railing outside the door.
I will add that their office is on the second floor of the building, with stairs on the outside. If you can’t handle stairs, or are uneasy about the possibility of walking on wet or icy stairs, have someone give you a hand.
I won’t say that this is a five-​star experience (really, who like taking out the trash?), but I rated it as such because I’m glad to see an industry taking responsibility for the environmental impact of their product.
* NOTE: As of 02/​15/​2013, Unilocal had the wrong address; it should be 1298 Cronson Blvd, Suite 201, Crofton, MD 21 114. I’ve submitted a request for update to the admins. Phone number is still the same.