Foam recycling program expands in Delaware; Milford facility to open Feb. 1

The Delaware Solid Waste Authority and Dart Container Corp. recently announced the opening of a second drop-off location for the recycling of polystyrene foam, also known as foam No. 6.

This second location, scheduled to begin operation Wednesday, Feb. 1, is being added as a result of the success of the initial recycling efforts at the Delaware Recycling Center in New Castle, and will be placed at the Milford Transfer Station, 1170 S. DuPont Blvd. in Milford.

Commonly referred to as Styrofoam, a registered trademark of the Dow Chemical Co., foam No. 6 is recyclable and is used in a wide range of products, from foam cups and foodservice containers to the large molded blocks used to package electronics.

Since Nov. 16, 2011, more than one ton of foam No. 6 has already been collected at the Delaware Recycling Center. The obvious success of the initial program led DSWA and Dart to the decision to extend the program to serve residents of Kent and Sussex counties. Normal hours of operation will be from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., Mondays through Saturdays.

“This program confirms that there is a market for growing recycling options, and the community wants to help divert waste from local landfills,” said Ray Ehrlich, regional manager for government affairs and the environment for Dart. DSWA Senior Manager of Statewide Recycling Rich Von Stetten added, “There is a need for this kind of recycling program, and we are proud to offer it to Delaware residents.”

Residents and businesses will be able to drop off their clean foam No. 6, such as foam cups, foam plates, foam egg cartons, take-out containers, as well as foam protective packaging typically used to protect consumer goods and electronics. Dart will provide bags onsite for residents dropping off foam No. 6 to use. Residents and businesses will be asked to bag their material and then place it into the bin. Packing peanuts are not accepted within this program.

Once collection bins are full, Dart will pick up and transport the contents to its plant for processing. It is then sold to other manufacturers that use the material to create a variety of new products, including picture frames, crown molding and nursery plant containers.

Established in 1937, Dart Container Corp. sets the industry standard of excellence by providing high-quality, recyclable, affordable and safe foodservice products and packaging, exceptionally reliable service and responsible environmental practices.

Dart is making a concerted effort to increase foam recycling opportunities throughout the country and strives to produce high-quality, cost-effective products in a manner sensitive to environmental concerns. Dart is headquartered in Mason, Mich. For more information, go to www.dart.biz/recycle or call 800-248-5960.

For more information about the DSWA’s recycling programs, call 1-800-404-7080 or go to www.dswa.com.