Find out more about EPS insulation in the building sector.
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Find out more about EPS as an efficient packaging material.
Learn moreEPS in Numbers
EPS is used in a range of applications, including building insulation and packaging. This section presents key information about its composition, uses and available recycling pathways.
For decades, EPS has been facilitating people's lives
with many applications in packaging and construction
1949
Fritz Statsny (BASF) created EPS in 1949
EPS is technically recyclable
through mechanical, physical, and chemical recycling
100%
technically recyclable
EPS is an extremely lightweight material
tiny EPS beads expand like popcorn
2%
EPS is only 2% polystryrene
Some call EPS "engineered air"
due to its structure, with EPS encapsulating air
98%
EPS is composed of nearly 98% air
EPS fish-box recycling
Reported in selected European countries
90%
reported recycling rate
EPS waste recycling in Europe
Conversio Study data (2021)
30%
reported recycling rate
A dedicated effort to collect EPS packaging waste
across Europe
372 kt
EPS packaging waste collected in 2021
A dedicated effort to collect EPS construction cut-offs
across Europe
135 kt
EPS construction waste collected in 2021
Meet the EUMEPS members
EUMEPS unites Raw Material Suppliers, Converters, Recyclers, Additive Spare Parts and Tool Suppliers as well as National Associations in advancing the EPS sector’s sustainability mission and achieving European recycling, and energy-efficiency targets.
EUMEPS: the Voice of the EPS Industry
EUMEPS is the premier advocate for EPS solutions. Representing every link of the EPS value chain, from large companies to SMEs, we are committed to fulfilling European environmental objectives.
As a contributor to making Europe climate-neutral and resource-efficient, we showcase EPS as a smart choice in packaging and insulation.