Figuring out what you can recycle and can’t is no easy feat. You might think all cardboard can be recycled and that all glassware is good to go, but that might not be true in every case. Some of us just cut our losses and put in all in general waste, but we need to be better. So, here’s a little guide discussing what household packaging you can recycle what needs to go in with the regular waste.
Read on to explore some FAQs and myths about recycling your household packaging…
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Why do we recycle?
Climate change and pollution are two of the most serious concerns for environmentalists. Things like microplastics have a huge impact on the world around us, and then there’s the landfill sites and industrial incinerators that pollute the landscape and air.
We should all recycle because: if everything was recycled properly we would be able to reduce the number of landfills, burn less waste, create more jobs, and save energy. There are few (if any) negatives to it, so recycling makes sense, right?
Can you recycle all Paper & Cardboard?
Most assume that all cardboard and paper is recyclable, but that’s not always the case. If they’re covered in food waste, they’re unlikely to be able to be recycled. You should also look out for:
– Wrapping paper (check the label)
– Wallpaper
– Wax wraps
– Greaseproof paper
– Baking sheets
– Sweet wrapper
These usually can’t be processed as they’re coated with something else that could contaminate the batch. However, regular household paper products like parcel paper, magazines, catalogues, and more are usually safe. And there’s no need to worry too much about leftover packaging tape – it can be removed during the recycling process by the facility.
Make sure you check the packaging labels too. Some companies have an environmental policy that ensures they’re good to be recycled, but it’s always good to check what the label says.
Can you recycle Polystyrene or Styrofoam?
These packaging materials are slow to biodegrade, so they’re not destined for the recycling bin. And you should avoid using them where possible.
A lot of fast food companies and other businesses use these kinds of materials for food deliveries and shipping protection, so, if you can, ask for cardboard or recyclable boxes or packaging. You could even take your own box to pick it up! There are even biodegradable alternatives to packaging peanuts now, so why not suggest these as an alternative?
Are Aluminium and Tinfoil recyclable?
Aluminium foil can be recycled as it’s an uncontaminated metal. Just make sure it’s cleared of any food waste – that way, it won’t compromise an entire load of metal recycling.
The same goes for cans and tins. These are all recyclable metal, just try and give everything a rinse to wash away any residue.
If you’re not sure your foil is recyclable, you could try the scrunch test. If you scrunch or crush it, and it doesn’t bounce back, it’s likely to be recyclable.
Can all Glass be recycled?
As with aluminium and tin cans, any glass you recycle should be rinsed clean to make it acceptable. Certain glass items can’t go in your household recycling, though:
– Light bulbs (there are dedicated community recycling bins for these)
– Crockery and drinking glasses
– Pyrex and cooking bowls
Can you recycle Bubble wrap?
Bubble wrap is fun to pop, but after that, it’s not 100% useful anymore as its protection level is reduced. So, what do you do with it?
You can use it for basic protection like wrapping items when you move house, insulating your greenhouse and shed, protecting your plants from frost or even adding cushioning to your camping mats. However, it’s not the sort of material that your local recycling centre can accept. Instead, a specialist centre is needed if you want to get rid of it safely.
A lot of stores and supermarkets offer collection bins for unwanted carrier bags, and you can often put bubble wrap in these as well. The bin should describe acceptable items, so head on out and check!
What about Nappies and Sanitary Products?
Any items that contain human waste (like nappies and sanitary items) are technically biohazards. As such, they are not recyclable as they’re unsafe to handle. It’s best to put these in general waste or specialist bins when out and about.
There are environmentally-friendly alternatives for nappies and sanitary products – things like moon cups, period pants, and washable nappies are now far more readily available than in previous years. It might be time to switch.
Are pet food pouches recyclable?
Pet food pouches used to go straight in the general waste bin. But nowadays there are recycling facilities that specialise in that kind of flexible plastic. All you need to do is find your local specialist collection centre, give your empty pouches a rinse and drop them off to be made into something else. Check your local pet stores or supermarkets to find one close to you.
Pet food packages can be recycled and are found very useful too. Common pet food pouches are from dog foods that can be quite helpful if recycled since most of the pet food pouches that are being used come from dog foods.
If you’re having trouble recycling your pet/dog food pouches, don’t worry! There are organizations like A Pup Above that care about recycling your food pouches. They even partnered with TerraCycle to help recycle your empty bags.
TerraCycle and A Pup Above have made this process free and easy for you. Join us in making an impact and showing this land some love!
When is Global Recycling Day 2022?
Global Recycling Day is on 18th March this year, and it aims to get people interested and more committed to recycling at home and away. Their website has a lot of guidance and resources, so head on over to discover how you can help out.
We hope we’ve debunked a few myths for you and made recycling at home a little clearer. The main takeaway here is to check the label and rinse all your tins and glassware – it’s the best way you can help the planet the right way.
