Got Styrofoam? Montclair Launches Recycling Pilot Program

MONTCLAIR, NJ — Got Styrofoam to dispose of? In Montclair – at least for a few months – there may be a way to safely recycle it thanks to a new pilot program.

On Saturday, June 5, the township and the Montclair Environmental Commission will launch a Styrofoam collection pilot program, which will run until July 31.

The program will be reassessed after two months to determine its future frequency.

“More and more municipalities are recycling Styrofoam to keep it out of the waste-stream, whether incineration or in landfills,” the Montclair Environmental Commission stated. “Styrofoam can release carcinogenic chemicals when burned. In landfills, Styrofoam takes up a lot of space. While Styrofoam recycling is increasing, more manufacturers are purchasing other materials: corn-based packaging, starch-based loose-fill, molded pulp, etc.”

Eligible Styrofoam waste can be brought to Montclair’s Community Services Yard at 219 North Fullerton Avenue on Saturdays in June and July, between the hours of 9 a.m. and noon (or until the collection truck is full).

The town is accepting the following items, which must be put in a clear plastic bag:

• clean, white, hard molded foam coolers
• protective Styrofoam commonly used in shipping: large, white, hard molded pieces and foam sheets, ie: material used to protect furniture and e-commerce deliveries

The town is not accepting these:

• Styrofoam cups
• Styrofoam food trays / plates (even if clean/unused)
• Styrofoam egg cartons
• Styrofoam packing peanuts

“Please remove any tape, paper, cardboard, etc. also, be sure to check for the number 6 recycling symbol,” town officials stated.

For questions, contact the MEC at mtcenv@gmail.com.

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com

Sign up for Patch email newsletters. Learn more about posting announcements or events to your local Patch site. Don’t forget to visit the Patch Montclair Facebook page.