A binman has set the record straight on how households should dispose of plastic bags and the new carrier bag recycling rules. Most households probably have numerous supermarket carrier bags knocking about. They are far more robust than they once were, with these 'bags for life' designed for multiple uses.
Yet if you have accumulated too many or yours have survived one shopping trip too many, you may be questioning how to dispose of them responsibly. Recycling rules changed earlier this year when the Simpler Recycling regulations came into force. With mounting confusion over household recycling guidance, one bin collector on social media is answering your queries.
'Binfluencer' No1 Binman on TikTok has built up a following of over 170,000 thanks to his practical tips on managing collection day. Recently, somebody asked about Tesco bags and whether they can be recycled. They said: "Can someone settle a debate for me. Tesco bags, are they recyclable? Says on them they are, but it does not feel right."
In brief, the binman confirmed that carrier bags are certainly recyclable, though the procedure is not straightforward. He clarifies they cannot go in any household recycling bins. If you want to recycle them, you can take them back to the supermarket, where they ought to accept them for recycling. The reason for keeping them out of home bins is that they can jam machinery at recycling plants, which he points out 'won't make them very happy'.
The best disposal option is to pop them in your normal rubbish bin or to carry on using them as they are meant to be used.
Can You Recycle Paper Bags?
Different rules apply when it comes to paper carrier bags. Experts at Best Pac UK explained: "The great news for the environment is that yes, paper bags can be recycled, but only if they are actually made from paper. Whilst most plastic bags, for example, are not recyclable, almost all types of paper bags can be recycled, helping to reduce the amount of plastic landfill sitting on the earth and polluting our oceans."
The one exception is laminated paper bags, which have an extra plastic film coating bonded to the paper and are commonly used to line bags for food items and perishable goods. Because of this lamination process, these particular bags are not suitable for recycling.
