In Mexico, EPS waste has often gone uncollected—until now. A coalition of industry players launched what they described as Latin America’s first national EPS recycling program, backed by the federal environmental authority and major industry associations (Plastics News). This pioneering public‑private initiative aims to expand EPS management beyond a 5–6% recycling rate.
At its launch, the coalition included three key organizations:
- Tecnologías Rennueva – EPS recycler
- Dart de México – processor for cups and containers
- M Arcos de México – producer of picture frames
Their shared ambition: boost collection infrastructure through a minimum of four new drop-off locations by 2019—covering Mexico City, Monterrey, Guadalajara, Yucatán, Baja California, and Veracruz (Plastics News). The new points join existing sites in Atlacomulco and Mexico City, targeting major EPS consumption zones.
Through efficient collection and processing partnerships, collected EPS is cleaned, shredded, and transformed into reusable feedstock—into structural frames, new packaging, and foam products.
Why this matters
Mexico currently consumes approximately 125,000 tonnes of EPS annually, with only a small fraction recycled (Plastics News). The companies’ coordinated strategy tackles key circular-system challenges: geography, volume logistics, and market development. By establishing collection infrastructure, integrating fabrication, and aligning with public policy support, this initiative shifts EPS recycling from fragmented pilot stage to scalable system.
This is not about pilot projects—it’s about demonstrable system-level impact. As Mexico explores sustainability frameworks and potential EPR regulations, this model offers a replicable foundation for meaningful EPS circularity. 📎 Read the full article at Plastics News
