US Plastics Pact removes EPS transport packaging from problem list

The US Plastics Pact has delisted expanded polystyrene (EPS) transport packaging from its Problematic and Unnecessary Materials List, the first removal since the list was established. The carve-out covers three specific EPS transport categories, while other EPS formats remain listed. The decision does not alter any state-level plastics legislation.

Why this mattersA first-ever delisting signals the Pact's criteria can be revisited, giving EPS packaging makers and users a precedent to seek reclassification of other materials.

• US Plastics Pact delisted EPS transport packaging from its Problematic and Unnecessary Materials List
• This is the first delisting since the list was created
• The exemption covers three specific transport-packaging categories; other EPS formats remain on the list
• Recycling of the delisted material is driven mainly by commercial distribution centres rather than curbside collection
• Densification is cited as the process making EPS a shippable recyclable commodity
• The decision does not change existing state law on plastics

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