Life cycle assessment of expanded polystyrene shipping boxes at a public research institution: insights for infrastructure at the end of life

Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is a synthetic plastic used in various industrial and commercial applications. EPS is popular for its unique physical properties, specifically insulating capabilities and low density. These properties become problematic at the end of its useful life as EPS cannot be recycled with other conventional plastics. Though possible, recycling EPS often is practically or economically prohibitive and the material typically is consigned to landfill after a single use. This study investigates the EPS handling system and several disposal alternatives using the methodology of life cycle assessment. The results are applied to evaluate the environmental impacts and economic tradeoffs of a recycling program for EPS shipping boxes at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. The approach in this study pertains to infrastructure sustainability through exploring the challenges and lack of existing infrastructure for managing EPS. The four disposal scenarios under consideration in this study are (1) consignment to a sanitary landfill, (2) a closed-loop reuse arrangement with a biotechnology company, (3) a conventional open-loop recycling arrangement with a specialty recycler, and (4) a novel open-loop recycling arrangement with an on-campus lab. While a closed-loop reuse system for EPS was most environmentally desirable, the study results indicate that conventional recycling of EPS is the only disposal scenario that generates net environmental benefits while also being logistically feasible. Thus, the study results contribute to the body of knowledge related to post-consumer EPS management and can inform decision-making at comparable institutions that generate large quantities of EPS waste.