What Packaging Materials Can You Recycle?

Businesses across the UK face mounting pressure to improve their recycling practices and better understand which materials belong in their recycling stream. WRAP (Waste and Resources Action Programme) data reveals that the UK generates over 11 million tonnes of packaging waste annually, yet only 63.9% gets recycled.

This guide breaks down recyclable packaging materials, helping you make informed waste management and disposal decisions.

Why Is Packaging Recycling Important?

The environmental impact of packaging waste creates long-lasting damage to ecosystems and wildlife.  Without substantial changes in recycling practices, there will be more plastic waste in the ocean than fish by 2050.

Beyond environmental concerns, ineffective packaging recycling directly impacts business operations and the bottom line. The UK government’s plastic packaging tax, introduced in April 2022, charges over £200 per tonne for packaging with less than 30% recycled contents. This legislative pressure and increasing consumer demand for sustainable practices make packaging recycling a business imperative.

Companies that implement successful recycling programmes typically see reduced waste management costs from lower disposal fees, decreased raw material purchases, and potential revenue from recycling valuable materials like metals and high-grade plastics.

Furthermore, adequate recycling practices help businesses:

  • Meet Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) targets required by investors and stakeholders.
  • Reduce carbon emissions throughout their supply chain.
  • Lower their environmental tax liabilities.
  • Improve their reputation with environmentally conscious customers.
  • Comply with current and future waste regulations.

Which Packaging Materials Can Your Business Recycle?

Types of Cardboard and Paper That are Recyclable

Clean, dry cardboard produces an 80% recycling rate in the UK when processed correctly. Recyclable cardboard and paper materials include:

  • Corrugated cardboard boxes and shipping containers.
  • Paperboard packaging from consumer goods.
  • Office paper, documents, and printed materials.
  • Kraft paper, bags, and wrapping materials.

Before paper & cardboard recycling begins, remove all non-paper elements like tape, staples, or plastic windows. These contaminants reduce recycling efficiency and may cause entire batches to be rejected.

Types of Recyclable Plastics

The plastic recycling system uses numerical codes (1-7) to help identify different types of recyclable plastics:

  1. PET (Type 1): Common in bottles and food containers.
  2. HDPE (Type 2): Used for drums and industrial containers.
  3. LDPE (Type 4): Found in plastic bags and flexible packaging.
  4. PP (Type 5): Present in rigid containers and automotive parts.

Types 3, 6, and 7 require specialist recycling processes due to their complex chemical composition and limited recycling infrastructure.

What Metal Packaging Can Be Recycled?

Metal packaging maintains its quality through multiple recycling cycles, with aluminium achieving a 75% recovery rate in the UK. Steel and aluminium packaging undergoes a straightforward recycling process that preserves material integrity. Common recyclable metal packaging includes:

  • Steel drums
  • Aluminium containers
  • Metal strapping
  • And tin packaging used in manufacturing and distribution.

How Should You Prepare Packaging for Recycling?

Adequate preparation determines recycling success rates. We suggest emptying all containers thoroughly and cleaning them to eliminate residual contents that could contaminate recycling streams.

Store recyclable materials in covered, designated areas to prevent moisture damage and maintain material quality. Regular staff training on professional material handling improves recycling programme effectiveness.

What Are Legal Obligations for Packaging Recycling?

The Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging Waste) Regulations apply to businesses handling more than 50 tonnes of packaging annually. These regulations require businesses to register with the Environment Agency, meet specific recovery targets, maintain detailed waste records, and submit quarterly returns documenting their recycling compliance.

Next Steps: How Do You Get Started?

As Packaging Reuse & Disposal Services, we recommend implementing an effective recycling programme with a thorough waste audit to identify and quantify recyclable materials in your waste stream. 

Document the types and quantities of packaging waste generated throughout your operations. Partner with a professional recycling services provider to develop a tailored programme that addresses your specific business needs while maintaining full compliance with UK regulations.

How Does Professional Recycling Support Benefit Your Business?

Professional recycling and disposal services provide the required expertise in waste management compliance. At Packaging Reuse, we understand the complexities of industrial packaging recycling and offer tailored solutions beyond basic waste collection. Our comprehensive approach includes:

  • Detailed waste audits to identify cost-saving opportunities.
  • Custom recycling programs designed around your specific operations.
  • Full compliance documentation and reporting.
  • Staff training on professional material handling and segregation.
  • Regular programme reviews to optimise recycling rates.

Working with packaging recycling specialists eliminates the guesswork from waste management. Our team of experts handles everything from initial assessment to ongoing support so your business achieves maximum value from its recycling efforts while maintaining full regulatory compliance.

We maintain all necessary certifications and permits for handling various waste streams, including hazardous materials. Contact us today to leverage our expertise and eliminate your business’s waste management and disposal problems.

 

Sources:

https://www.wrap.ngo/resources/report/plastics-market-situation-report-2021

https://www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/the-new-plastics-economy-rethinking-the-future-of-plastics