Polystyrene foam presents unique management issues because of its lightweight nature, ability to float, and the likelihood to be blown from disposal sites even when disposed of properly. The lightweight and buoyant Polystyrene travels quickly through gutters and storm drains, eventually reaching the ocean. Plastic from urban runoff is the largest source of marine debris worldwide.

• When Polystyrene travels down waterways and storm drains into the ocean, it breaks down into smaller, non- biodegradable pieces ingested by marine life and other wildlife, thus harming or killing them.

• In one Californian study, at least 162 marine species, including most seabirds, were reported to have eaten plastics and other marine litter.

Sources:

1. Sea Sick Fish - http://seasickfish.com/contact/

Giving Tech Labs Team - Giving.Tech