Meredith Rotary Club to hold Styrofoam recycling day

MEREDITH — The Meredith Rotary Club, with the cooperation of the Meredith Department of Public Works, will offer the communities of Meredith and Center Harbor a polystyrene (Styrofoam) collection day on Saturday, Jan. 10, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Meredith Solid Waste Facility at 17 Jenness Hill Road. The event will take place rain or shine. 

Polystyrene, more commonly known as Styrofoam, is made from petroleum products with additional harmful chemicals added. It degrades very slowly, and if disposed of improperly poses the threat of poisoning water sources and harming wildlife that may consume its remnants. Additionally, because it doesn’t degrade, Styrofoam takes up much needed space in landfills and cannot be incinerated with other trash, as burning it releases toxic fumes into the environment. 

Polystyrene (Styrofoam) No. 6 recycle symbol is the only accepted material on the collection date. This Styrofoam is generally used for foam coolers and as packing material around furniture, appliances, and electronics. Other No. 6 foams, including clean food containers, egg cartons, plates, and cups, will also be accepted. Some recyclable materials do not display a symbol but are still acceptable. The public is asked to save and bring any materials matching the description. 

All collected material will be transported by Rotarians from Meredith to the Gilford Solid Waste Center, where it will be professionally recycled. Pipe insulation, bubble wrap, packing peanuts, squishy foam, dirty foam food containers, egg crate foam layers, craft foam, and foam board insulation will not be accepted, as they do not carry the No. 6 symbol. 

The Meredith Rotary Club intends to hold a Styrofoam recycling day quarterly throughout 2026. Residents of Meredith and Center Harbor who are unable to attend the event are encouraged to save their Styrofoam for the next upcoming collection day. 

For more information, visit meredithrotary.org.