Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) Recycling Explained
Understanding EPS and Its Impact
Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) is commonly used in packaging, insulation, and protective transportation materials. Lightweight, durable, and moisture-resistant, it's a practical material – but also one of the most misunderstood and under-recycled.
Although EPS is 100% recyclable, limited local infrastructure and handling challenges mean much of it still ends up in landfill.
At Regenthill, we’re changing that. As one of the UK’s few accredited EPS polystyrene recyclers, we help businesses across South England recover value from EPS while meeting environmental targets.
What Is EPS?
EPS is a rigid, closed-cell foam made from polystyrene beads. Composed of 98% air, it’s extremely light, but bulky – making it difficult and expensive to transport without proper equipment.
Common commercial uses include:
Protective packaging for electronics and appliances
Insulation boards in construction
Fish boxes and food transport containers
Retail product packaging
Because of its low weight and high volume, EPS isn’t accepted in standard council collections, so responsible disposal requires a specialist provider.
Why Recycle EPS?
EPS recycling offers major benefits for businesses and the environment:
Reduces landfill costs and volume
Supports circular economy goals
Demonstrates environmental responsibility
May offer rebates for compacted material
Recycled EPS can be turned into a range of new products, including:
Insulation panels
Building materials
Picture frames
Garden furniture
By recycling EPS, your business diverts unnecessary waste and contributes to sustainable manufacturing practices.
Regenthill’s EPS Recycling Services
We offer flexible, cost-effective solutions for commercial and industrial clients:
Loose and Compacted EPS Collections
We accept both loose EPS and compacted material. Where compacting is possible, we provide guidance or on-site support to help increase rebate potential.
Tailored Logistics
Our team works with you to arrange the best collection method – whether that’s a scheduled pickup, one-off clearance, or integrated with your existing waste service.
Processing and Reporting
All EPS is processed through accredited UK channels, with full traceability and waste transfer documentation for your records.
On-site Equipment
We supply and maintain equipment EPS compactive machines to help businesses store and process EPS more efficiently and safely.
Rebates and Revenue Opportunities
Depending on the volume and density of your EPS waste, Regenthill may offer rebates for compacted material. To qualify:
EPS must be clean, dry, and free of contamination
Ideally compacted using a screw press or block press
Volumes should be consistent to ensure processing efficiency
We’ll assess your setup and advise whether you qualify, as well as suggesting how to improve your eligibility.
EPS Recycling Across Sectors
We work with clients in:
Manufacturing
Retail and ecommerce
Construction
Food production
Warehousing and logistics
Many of these industries handle large volumes of packaging EPS and need a partner who can collect and process it efficiently, safely, and responsibly.
Why Regenthill?
With over two decades of recycling expertise, Regenthill is a trusted partner for businesses seeking specialist EPS solutions. We provide:
Proven infrastructure to handle large EPS volumes
Fast, reliable collection across South England
Custom solutions for your waste stream
Friendly, expert support when you need it
Ready to Recycle EPS?
If your business uses or receives EPS regularly, we can help you reduce waste, save money, and operate more sustainably.
Contact Regenthill today to arrange a collection, request a rebate consultation, or explore how EPS recycling fits into your total waste management plan.