Navigating the Advocacy Landscape: EUMEPS and Expanded Polystyrene
At a time when environmental sustainability is essential, EUMEPS actively engages with policymakers, industry stakeholders, and environmental groups to advocate for EPS in relevant construction and packaging applications. Through strategic advocacy, EUMEPS aims to contribute sector expertise and evidence to discussions on EPS applications, including technical recycling pathways and building thermal-performance requirements.
Combatting Microplastics Pollution
EUMEPS recognises the urgency of this environmental issue and actively contributes to initiatives that aim to minimise the release of intentional and unintentional microplastics. A testament to our commitment is our participation in Operation Clean Sweep® (OCS), an international initiative aimed at preventing the loss of plastic granules, flakes, and powders during handling processes across the plastic value chain. Participating EUMEPS members implement OCS guidelines intended to prevent losses during handling.
This fight represents an integral part of our dialogue with policymakers and environmental organisations. Through scientific research and data, we inform discussions on the European Union's regulatory framework, aiming to ensure that policies reflect a balanced understanding of EPS's environmental impacts and technical recycling pathways. By advocating for measures that combine feasibility and efficiency, EUMEPS strives to shape regulations that support the circular economy while addressing pressing environmental issues such as microplastic pollution in a meaningful way.
Advancing Plastic Treatment and Recycling
EUMEPS, as part of the Global EPS Sustainability Alliance (GESA), is an active participant in the discussions on the Plastic Treaty of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). We support an ambitious plan to eliminate plastic pollution through a practical agreement and the establishment of a scientific advisory board to address potentially problematic plastics. EUMEPS endorses chemical transparency and evidence-based assessment of EPS.
EUMEPS is also engaged in discussions on the Waste Framework Directive, advocating for policies that recognise and support the technical characteristics of EPS and available recycling pathways. We are working to ensure that legislative frameworks streamline the collection, sorting, and recycling of EPS waste to better align with broader environmental goals.
Leading With Purpose and Partnership
In navigating the advocacy landscape, EUMEPS centres on a commitment to evidence-based policy dialogue, innovation, and collaboration. Through concerted efforts to combat microplastic pollution, advance plastic treatment and recycling practices, and engagement with international environmental initiatives, we are not only advocating for EPS but for a policy framework that addresses plastic-pollution challenges.