2025 iJURECON

In this fast-paced era of modernization, the use of polystyrene as single-use food containers has become a common practice in daily life. Although it is lightweight, cheap, and practical, the widespread use of polystyrene has triggered various environmental pollution issues. This material is non-biodegradable, contributing to the increase of solid waste. It also contains carcinogens that release toxic substances such as styrene when burned. This not only pollutes the air but also endangers human health and ecosystem balance. The problem statement discussed in this study refers to the negative impacts of polystyrene disposal and the lack of widely used sustainable alternatives among consumers. The objectives of the study are to identify the impacts of polystyrene disposal on the environment, awareness regarding the use of polystyrene food container, and propose innovative alternative materials that are more environmentally friendly and sustainable. This study was conducted through a literature review, analysing various secondary sources such as research journals, scientific articles, and online materials related to polystyrene disposal and plastic waste management. Findings indicate that polystyrene recycling is still inefficient due to food contamination, high costs, and lack of specialized facilities. Consumer awareness was also found to be low. In conclusion, a more comprehensive approach combining innovation and education is essential to reduce dependency on single use packaging and environmental and public health safety.