And I brought you into a plentiful land to enjoy its fruits and its good things. But when you came in, you defiled my land and made my heritage an abomination. Jeremiah 2: 7
The Hidden Dangers of Expanded Polystyrene (Styrofoam)
Expanded polystyrene (EPS), often mistaken for Styrofoam, is everywhere—takeout containers, coffee cups, and packaging. But while it’s cheap, lightweight and convenient, it comes with serious environmental and health risks.
It is made from styrene, a chemical linked to health concerns. Long-term exposure to styrene—especially for workers in industries that produce it—has been associated with nervous system issues, headaches, and even potential cancer risks. You must never microwave food in styrofoam because , harmful chemicals can seep into your food, especially if it’s oily or acidic. Over time, consuming these chemicals may have negative effects on your health.
Though using a foam cup once won’t harm you, the bigger issue is what happens after you throw it away.
It is not biodegradable, meaning it lingers in the environment for hundreds of years. Since it’s easily broken into tiny pieces, it becomes a major source of plastic pollution. Animals often mistake these small bits for food, leading to choking, malnutrition, or even death. Because it is so light, it gets carried by the wind into waterways and oceans, contributing to the global plastic crisis.
Recycling is difficult and expensive, so most of it ends up in landfills or as litter. Burning it releases toxic chemicals into the air, further harming the environment. Some cities and countries have started banning styrofoam products, encouraging the use of biodegradable or reusable alternatives.
Both the provincial Synod and the Provincial Mothers Union of the Anglican Church of Southern Africa have passed resolutions to ban the use of styrofoam in their Dioceses.
