A binman has finally settled the debate over which bin polystyrene should go in, admitting it is one of the most commonly confused items. The lightweight and durable plastic is frequently used in packaging, food containers, and insulation. However, despite common belief, it is not recyclable through standard household recycling bins.
Polystyrene Goes in the Waste Bin
Binman Ashely, known as The No1 Binman on TikTok, warned: "So many people put polystyrene in [the recycling bin], polystyrene is not recyclable in your household waste." He added: "Unless your council is different, let me know if it is, but I'm sure it isn't."
Ashely highlighted a common mistake where people place cardboard boxes filled with other packaging materials directly into the recycling bin. "Just because it is cardboard, doesn't mean that everything inside it turns to cardboard. Please take out all the non-recyclables, polystyrene and plastics, which come in the box. Then you can put it [cardboard box] in the bin and it will be collected. Make sure you break down your boxes and you will have more room inside your bin to put more stuff in."
Consequences of Wrong Binning
Ashely warned that if your bin is rejected due to incorrect items, you will have to sort it out yourself and may wait two to three weeks before the next collection. This can lead to a buildup of waste and potential hygiene issues.
Official Guidance
Recycle Now also published guidance on recycling polystyrene, stating: "Polystyrene is a type of plastic which is not commonly recycled and should be placed in the waste bin." The organisation noted that expanded polystyrene is sometimes used for take-away food containers and to package white goods like microwaves, as well as for other food packaging like multi-pack yoghurts.
London Recycles explained that polystyrene often isn't recycled because it is difficult to sort from other types of plastic waste. It can easily break into small beads which can clog up sorting machines and cause them to break. The organisation advised: "Try and avoid buying food and drink which comes in polystyrene. If you can't, put the containers in your rubbish bin."
Check Local Rules
Most households have a waste bin and a recycling bin, but rules can vary by local authorities. It is always worth checking with your local council to see their specific regulations. Putting the wrong items in the wrong bins can risk your waste not being collected, so it is important to follow the guidance.
