Dear LG Focus,
LG Focus is becoming more of a general news and comment forum as evidenced by ‘The Good Oil’ column and, in this vein, I would like to highlight the problems arising from the continuing use of expanded polystyrene (EPS) as a packaging material.
We are all familiar with this ubiquitous material, which surrounds much of the consumer electronics we buy and which often proves difficult to dispose of.
Breaking the material to fit inside waste bins releases a multitude of small white beads, which flutter away in the slightest breeze, prove impossible to collect and end up in waterways and the oceans.
EPS is extraordinarily resilient to most biodegrading agents and is recognised as a primary source of beach pollutant.
Packaging is one of a myriad of uses of EPS that includes building insulation, marine floats and food containers and cost effective alternatives for these applications may not be yet apparent.
However, some manufacturers of electronics and small appliances have demonstrated that paper based packaging performs just as effectively as EPS and it puzzles me that the state EPAs, Local Government and the community at large are not urging industry to eliminate this particular use of EPS.
Although the waste industry doesn’t regard the material as problematic, when it is dumped in landfill, along with other light material, it is free to be distributed by the wind.
I am keen to see if any of your readers share my views.
Alan Haselden
Liberal Councillor for East Ward
The Hills Shire
