PORT TOWNSEND – Wondering what to do with all the leftover Styrofoam from Christmas gift boxes but don’t want to throw it away? A Port Townsend man has developed a recycling program just for that concern.
Christopher Overman, manager of Olympic Hostel located in Fort Worden State Park, is going the extra mile to make sure that Styrofoam, also know as polystyrene, doesn’t end up in a landfill.
Because there is no polystyrene recycling plant in the state, he located the nearest one in Portland and has been gathering Styrofoam to take down to be recycled.
“Even though this is one little thing, everyone’s got their battles, and this is what I’ve chosen,” said Overman.
The recycling program is not officially affiliated with either Fort Worden State Park or with the Olympic Hostel.
It is something that Overman realized was a need and took on.
Overman maintains a top secret drop spot where people in the program leave the Styrofoam.
He said he keeps it secret because he wants to retain some amount of control over who is leaving the foam, and to make sure only Styrofoam is left.
To sign up for the program, Overman asks that those interested phone him at 360-385-0655.
Once on the line, Overman will disclose the location of the drop spot and explain that he asks that, in addition to leaving Styrofoam, users also leave a donation.
The donation covers the cost of fuel to drive the foam to Portland.
“I’m not getting paid for this,” said Overman. “I’m just doing this because it has to be done.”
