Green?

Styrofoam (expanded polystyrene or EPS) as a construction material can have some merits when integrated with other materials, but building an entire structure solely out of it will not work.

Pros of Using Styrofoam in Construction:

1. Lightweight: Styrofoam is incredibly lightweight, making it easy to handle and transport.
2. Insulation Properties: It has excellent thermal insulation properties, which can reduce heating and cooling costs.
3. Moisture Resistance: Styrofoam resists water absorption, making it less prone to rot or mold compared to wood.
4. Energy Efficiency in Production: When compared to some traditional materials, its production can be less energy-intensive.

Cons and Practical Challenges:

1. Structural Weakness: Styrofoam lacks the strength and rigidity required for load-bearing structures. It cannot safely support significant weight for walls, roofs, or floors.
2. Fire Hazard: Styrofoam is highly flammable and can emit toxic gases when burned, making it a safety risk without additional fireproofing measures.
3. Environmental Concerns: While some claim Styrofoam is “green,” it is non-biodegradable and can be challenging to recycle effectively. Widespread use may lead to waste management issues.  (I'm in the waste business, and . . . frankly it is a pain to dispose of.)
4. Acoustic Properties: It provides poor sound insulation, which can be a drawback in residential or commercial settings.
5. Integration Challenges: To create a viable structure, Styrofoam would need to be combined with other materials (like concrete or fiberglass) for stability and protection. This increases costs and complexity.

Viable Applications of Styrofoam in Construction:

Styrofoam can work well as part of insulated concrete forms (ICFs) or structural insulated panels (SIPs). These systems use Styrofoam as insulation sandwiched between stronger, load-bearing materials. They are used effectively in energy-efficient building designs.

My Final Thoughts:

Building an entire structure from Styrofoam alone is not practical due to its inherent limitations. However, using it innovatively as part of composite materials could offer energy-efficient and cost-effective solutions. To gain traction, you will need to address safety, durability, and environmental concerns effectively.

So, no.  Two things that really stand out are that apparently you aren't considering: 1.  Fire hazard.  2. Strength.  Styrofoam is very flammable.  And, styrofoam isn't strong enough to build a durable building.  Sorry to dampen your enthusiasm!