A UK waste expert has clarified that crisp packets and other soft plastics are recyclable, but only at dedicated supermarket collection points, not in household recycling bins. Ashley, a binman who posts on social media as @theno.1binman, has worked in the UK waste and recycling sector for 13 years.
Three-Word Rule for Crisp Packets
In a recent video, Ashley explained that crisp packets cannot be recycled at home. He stated: "They can be recycled, just not in your recycling bin at home." Ashley added that soft plastic packaging is recyclable but must be taken to dedicated plastic recycling bins typically located outside major supermarkets.
He said: "Most supermarkets have them at the exits. You can take them [the soft plastics] there and recycle them but do not recycle them in your household bins."
Risk of Bin Rejection
Putting soft plastics in the wrong bin can cause collection problems. Ashley warned: "Don't put them [soft plastics] in your plastic bin because it could get rejected and then you'll have to sort through it all." He added that the same applies to chocolate wrappers.
To ensure bins are collected, residents should check their local authority's waste collection guidelines, as rules can differ between councils.
How to Recycle Soft Plastics Properly
For proper soft plastic recycling, Ashley advises keeping a dedicated bag or box at home to collect these items, then taking them to a supermarket collection point during the next food shop.
