What plastics cannot be recycled?

The benefits of plastic recycling for UK businesses are threefold. First, we see companies meeting their sustainability targets, attracting good PR and even increasing business.

Second, it can increase profit margins – reducing landfill fees and putting money back in our pockets.

Finally, some UK businesses may have a legal obligation. Plastic recycling may help to avoid penalties or fines, particularly in industries with hazardous waste.

But what happens when we cannot recycle plastics, and what should we do instead as UK business owners?

Understanding why not all plastics can be recycled

In an ideal world, all plastics would be recyclable – from food packaging through to office materials. However, not all plastics are the same, and their recyclability comes down to the chemical bonding process.

Specifically, thermoset plastics (a plastic which becomes solid when heated and cannot be reversed) containing certain polymers cannot be recycled. These polymers form irreversible chemical bonds. They cannot be re-melted and re-moulded, which means they can only be used once.

Other reasons why plastic may not be recyclable

While the chemical bonding process is the most common reason for non-recyclable plastics, it’s not the only one. UK business owners should be wary of the different conditions that can affect plastics – particularly those owners working in hospitality.

For example, pre-prepared bags of salad are commonplace in restaurant kitchens. Sadly, this type of plastic is non-recyclable because it is made up of many different plastics. This helps to keep the packaging airtight.

Likewise, plastic packaging that has been soiled cannot be melted down. So, if you’re recycling plastic that has been stained with grease or other non-removable food, it will need to go to landfill. You may be able to salvage the plastic, however, with a little rinse!

Which plastics are non-recyclable?

When segregating your waste to recycle plastic, always look at the packaging. Plastic packaging will have a number on it from 1 to 7 if it is recyclable. Generally speaking, most packaging will also tell you if it’s non-recyclable.

Examples of plastic that do not contain these recycling numbers include:

• Bin liners (not always – some are biodegradable and will say this if so)
• Ziplock food bags or inner plastic bags for cereal boxes
• Some crisp packets (though if they don’t spring back when scrunched, they may be recyclable)
• Bubble wrap
• Plastic wrap.

Workplace plastic items that are non-recyclable

It’s not always immediately obvious which plastics are non-recyclable, so it’s easier to group by common workplace items. Some examples of non-recyclable items include:

• Plastic bags
• Coffee cups
• Straws
• Computer keyboards
• Some makeup removal pads (beauticians should look to see if they contain polyester).

How is plastic categorised?

If you’re segregating your waste, it will help to understand the seven different types of plastic. These should be labelled on most standard packaging, but a business waste management broker can also help. The seven types of recyclable plastic are:

1. Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
   • Plastic bottles and food packaging.
2. High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
   • Non-food and beverage packaging, such as cleaning products.
3. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
   • Food wrapping, toys, hoses and pipes.
4. Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE)
   • Bottle rings and product packaging. It is not widely recycled but is possible.
5. Polypropylene (PP)
   • Coffee cups and car parts. Again, it’s not widely recycled but can be by specialist providers.
6. Polystyrene (PS)
   • Used for packaging, this is rarely but sometimes recycled.
7. Other
   • Some materials use a blend, such as car parts.

If you’re not sure how to recycle your plastics, ask hubba for a free waste management audit today.