Plastics That Can Be Recycled In The UK
Plastic is a versatile and durable material that is used in a wide variety of products. This includes packaging, containers, and household items. However, plastic waste is a major environmental problem, and recycling is one of the most effective ways to reduce plastic pollution. However, what plastics can be recycled in the UK?
In the UK, many different types of plastics can be recycled, including plastic packaging, carrier bags, plastic bottles, ready meal trays, yogurt pots, and cling film.
What Plastics Can Be Recycled?
Polyethylene Terephthalate
One of the most common types of plastic that can be recycled in the UK is polyethylene terephthalate (PET). This type of plastic is typically used to make drinks bottles, salad bags, and other food packaging.
It is a clear, strong, and lightweight material that is easy to recycle. To recycle PET, it is important to first clean and remove any food residue from the packaging. It can then be placed in a recycling bin or taken to a recycling facility.
Polypropylene
Another common type of plastic that can be recycled in the UK is polypropylene (PP). This material is used in a variety of products, including yoghurt pots, plastic bags, and ready meal trays.
PP is a strong and heat-resistant plastic that can be easily recycled. PP can be placed in a recycling bin or taken to a recycling facility.
HDPE
High density polyethylene (HDPE) is another type of plastic that can be recycled in the UK. This material is used in a variety of products, including milk bottles, shampoo bottles, and other household items.
HDPE is a strong and durable plastic that is easy to recycle. If you are a business creating bulk loads of HDPE waste, Plastic Expert can collect and recycle your materials safely.
LDPE
Carrier bags, which are made from low density polyethylene (LDPE), can also be recycled in the UK. LDPE is a flexible plastic that is used to make bags, wraps, and other products.
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
Another type of plastic that can be recycled in the UK is Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). PVC is a strong and durable plastic that is commonly used in construction materials, such as pipes and window frames, as well as in packaging, toys, and other consumer goods.
PVC is not commonly recycled in the UK as it poses a number of challenges during the recycling process. It often contains toxic additives, like lead and phthalates, which make it difficult to recycle.
What Can’t Be Recycled?
It is important to note that not all plastic can be recycled, and some types of plastic can actually contaminate a batch of recyclable plastic and make it un-recyclable. For example, mixed plastic, such as plastic bags and films, are not always recyclable and should be placed in the trash instead of the recycling bin.
Why You Should Recycle Plastics
In general, recycling plastics can be a great way to reduce plastic waste and help protect the environment. By properly recycling different types of plastic, we can help conserve resources and reduce pollution.
However, it is also important to note that recycling alone is not enough to solve the plastic waste problem. We also need to reduce our use of single-use plastics, such as plastic bags, and invest in sustainable alternatives.
