Polystyrene is a type of plastic that is not commonly recycled and should be placed in the waste bin. Expanded polystyrene is sometimes used for take-away food containers and to package white goods like microwaves. If you are unsure which bin to place your polystyrene waste in, you will need to check with your local authority or business waste service provider. In most cases, it will go in the general waste bin; however, some local councils and commercial waste service providers will ask you to place it in your recycling bin. It is important to note that styrofoam, which is a trademarked name for a specific variation of expanded polystyrene packaging, is not recyclable and should not be placed in outdoor or commercial recycling bins.