Nashville, Tennessee, launched its first city-run foam recycling drop-off programme in April 2026, giving residents a dedicated route for EPS packaging and selected clean foodservice foam that is not accepted through ordinary curbside recycling.
The service operates at the city’s East Convenience Center. Nashville’s guidance accepts protective packaging blocks used around furniture, electronics and appliances, as well as foam coolers and selected foodservice items such as meat trays, egg cartons, cups, plates and takeaway containers.
Densifying EPS before transport
The collected material is processed through densification equipment installed at the site. By reducing the volume of the lightweight foam, the city can prepare it for more efficient transport to a downstream processor.
Nashville identifies Engineered Foam Packaging in nearby La Vergne as the processing partner. The city says the recovered material can be used in new building and consumer products.
The programme also shows why clear collection rules matter. Foodservice items must be rinsed, while tape and labels have to be removed from packaging. Packing peanuts, flexible foams, insulation boards and contaminated items are excluded.
Nashville’s approach combines municipal collection, preparation requirements, local densification and a named recycling partner. It is another example of a city creating a practical recycling route for EPS by designing the collection system around the material.
Sources used in this article
Nashville Department of Waste Services: City launches first foam recycling programme
Nashville: Current foam recycling drop-off guidance
WSMV: Local reporting on the programme launch
EcoPlastics in Packaging: EPS recycling arrives for Nashville residents
