A binman has issued a reminder about a crucial rule for disposing of birthday cards that many people may overlook. On average, Brits send more cards per person than any other nation, with over 80% of UK adults purchasing and mailing them. According to research by HMG Pop Up Paper, individuals send around 30 physical cards each year. However, once the celebration concludes, proper disposal is essential.
When cards cannot be recycled
While some people keep cards as mementos, limited space often forces them to throw cards away. But not all cards can go into the paper recycling bin. A binman named Ashley, known as @Theno1.binman on TikTok, shared a video outlining the rules. He explained that standard cards without embellishments can be placed in the paper recycling bin. However, problems arise with more elaborate or handmade cards.
Ashley stated: "If it starts to have glitter, or someone's drawn or painted a picture for you, then it cannot go in your paper recycling bin - it has to go in your general waste bin." He emphasised that "once it's got glitter or paint on it, it cannot be recycled." Items that break this rule are considered contaminated and will not be collected on pick-up day.
Consequences of contamination
If your bin contains contaminated items, collection crews typically leave it unemptied and attach a warning tag or sticker. You must then remove the incorrect items before the next scheduled collection or dispose of the waste yourself at a local household recycling centre.
The reason glitter and paint prevent recycling is that most glitter consists of tiny plastic and aluminium flecks. When mixed with paper during recycling, these particles cannot be filtered out and can ruin entire batches of new recycled paper products. Paints, particularly heavy acrylics, create a barrier that stops paper from breaking down properly in water and can clog machinery in paper mills.
How to properly dispose of decorated cards
You do not have to discard the entire card if only a small section is decorated. Simply tear off or cut away the parts with glitter, paint, or foil. The plain paper and card can go into your standard paper recycling bin, while the decorated pieces should go into general waste.
According to London Recycles, reusing cards is another environmentally friendly option. The organisation suggests: "If you’re into your arts and crafts, why not turn your glittery cards into something new? You could transform them into place holders, napkin holders, gift tags and bunting – just some ideas to get you started."
Because UK bin rules vary by local council, the best way to avoid issues is to check your council's website for an 'A to Z of Recycling' or 'What goes in my bin' guide. Alternatively, use the Recycle Now Recycling Locator by entering your UK postcode to get a breakdown tailored to your local council's exact rules.
