A binman has finally settled the debate on where to dispose of used paracetamol blister packs, revealing they belong in general waste, not recycling. The TikTok user, known as TheNo1 Binman, explained that the foil and plastic combination in blister packs cannot be separated through standard household recycling processes.
Why Blister Packs Go in General Waste
In a viral TikTok video, the binman addressed the common confusion over blister packs, which are used for medications like paracetamol and ibuprofen. He stated: “It actually goes in general waste because the foil on it cannot be separated. You would put it in general waste.” This advice applies to the blister portion itself, not the outer packaging.
Proper Disposal of Outer Packaging
For the rest of the packaging, the rules differ. The cardboard box can be placed in the cardboard recycling bin, but the plastic sleeve that often holds the blister pack should not go in the plastic recycling bin. The binman clarified: “The box itself can go in the cardboard bin, but the plastic sleeve does not go in the plastic bin. I know it’s made of plastic, and you think it must go in there, but no. Not everything is recyclable within your household, so please don’t put them in there.”
Eco-Friendly Alternative: Boots Recycling Program
For those seeking a more environmentally friendly option, Boots offers a blister pack recycling program. Customers can earn loyalty points by recycling their empty blister packs in store. To participate, download the Boots recycling app, use it to log your empties, and once you have collected five packs, take them to a Boots store for recycling. The program ensures that the film is separated and recycled, and the plastic is repurposed into items like window frames, tables, and playground equipment. According to Boots, no part of the blister pack is incinerated or sent to landfill.
