Applications Household, Leisure, Sports Some of the most common items we use in our free time are made of styrene-based materials. Styrenic polymers are used in sport protective equipment, such as helmets for cycling, motorcycling, and snow sports, providing highly reliable protection. Not only are styrenics an ideal material for absorbing energy during a head impact, but they are also lightweight and effective under a wide range of conditions, which is ideal for equipment used outdoor. According to a socio-economic analysis of styrenic polymers conducted by Wood1, it was estimated that roughly half of motorcycle helmets in the EU market contain an ABS/SAN shell and around two-thirds of protective helmets contain EPS cushioning foam. Styrenic polymers are also used in common items such as toys and electric toothbrushes, with benefits in terms of products’ durability and design flexibility. Their presence in these sectors is significant, with styrenic polymers estimated to be used in 90% of toy building bricks in Europe, according to the aforementioned Wood analysis. 1 Wood Group UK Limited, Socio-economic analysis of styrene-based food contact materials, commissioned by Plastics Europe, December 2021. Report available upon request
12 February 2025 Priority? Insulation! A pan-European campaign to drive the energy transition The leaders of Europe's insulation industry associations - Exiba, Eurima, Eumeps, and PU Europe - explore why tackling excessive energy use in buildings first is the key to achieving energy transition, cutting costs for citizens, and keeping European industries competitive.
10 December 2024 Time for a new, multidisciplinary approach to the study of microplastics in the environment In recent years, there has been a growing body of research on nano- and micro-plastics and the potential risks for human health and the environment. As part of our commitments, we have been collaborating with regulators and scientists to better understand how microplastics are formed, their impact, and to propose measures to mitigate their release.
1 October 2024 European Commission’s Political Priorities for 2024-2029: A Styrenics Perspective In July, during her election for a second term as President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen presented her Political Guidelines to the newly elected Members of the European Parliament.