A binman has warned that empty crisp packets should not be placed in household recycling bins, as many people are making this mistake. Putting incorrect items in the wrong bins can lead to collections being rejected.
Knowing which bin to use is important to avoid waste building up between collection days. Bin rules vary depending on location, with most households having separate bins for food, recycling, and general waste.
Where to Put Empty Crisp Packets
Ashley, who shares advice through his No1 Binman account, said crisp packets should not go in the recycling bin. He urged: "People put crisps packets in their recycling bin; don't do it, people."
The refuse collector explained: "They can be recycled, but just not in your recycling bin at home. If you want to recycle them, go to the supermarket. Most supermarkets have it [recycling points] at the exit, some at the entry, it depends on the supermarket."
He added: "You do not recycle them in your household bin unless your council is different to everyone else's; do check. Put them in your general waste bin if any, and not in your plastic bin because it will be rejected."
How to Recycle Crisp Packets
Ashley noted that the same rules apply to chocolate wrappers. Recycle Now said: "Crisp packets are not currently recyclable in home recycling collections but can be recycled along with plastic bags and wrapping at selected retailers."
The Recycle Now website can be used to find retailers that accept recycling. Most large supermarkets participate in the scheme.
What Plastic Can Be Recycled?
According to Recycle Now, the following items can be taken to plastic carrier bag collection points:
- All plastic bags, except biodegradable or compostable bags
- Bread bags
- Breakfast cereal liners
- Delivery bags
- Dry cleaning bags
- Frozen food bags
- Magazine and newspaper wrappers
- Multi-pack wrapping
- Plastic marked as low-density polyethylene (LDPE) - resin ID code 4
- Toilet roll wrapping
- Fruit and vegetable nets
- Coffee pouches
Some major supermarkets also accept baby, pet food, detergent and cleaning pouches; biscuits and chocolate wrapping; cheese, fish and meat wrapping; cling film; crisp and sweet bags; plastic film lids; bubble wrap; and salad, pasta, and rice bags.
