en found in toys, as well as packaging in general and some plastic bags
Other codes exist, such as PP and PS, although they may be less familiar.
The codes for labelling plastics were created by the Plastics Industry Association, the organisation that supports the whole of the supply chain for plastics.
It’s not mandatory that plastics are labelled or marked.
For some plastic types, it’s possible to follow the closed-loop recycling cycle, which is when the materials (so in this case, the plastics) have been recycled and can be returned to the market to be used again.
2. What type of businesses might need commercial plastic recycling?
If your business creates plastic waste, then you may be able to recycle it. Plastic waste comes from industrial production processes, as well as from utilities and from making other materials.
It’s important for all businesses to have a plastic recycling policy – even if it’s just to ensure that you recycle empty drinks bottles.
While plastic is a material commonly found in many commercial operations – especially retail and hospitality businesses – there are other examples.
For instance, scrap plastic waste may come from glazing companies and warehouses.
Similarly, if you’re a florist or run a landscaping business, flowerpots and other trade materials are often made from plastic. Flowerpots can be difficult to recycle, so consider alternatives instead (see below for more information).
Covers, wrapping and bags from farm equipment are also examples of commercial plastic waste that could be recycled.
If you run a home-based business, remember that the waste produced from your business activity must be treated as commercial waste.
3. What is the plastic disposal process?
Plastic can be sorted into different waste streams. These include:
- Manufacturing waste (such as scrap or rejects)
- Packaging waste (e.g. bottles, caps and containers)
- Redundant waste (e.g. packaging and raw material)
- End-of-life plastic waste (such as from automotive materials or wheelie bin recycling)
- Baled plastic film or hard plastic cases
Plastic waste can be collected as scrap (i.e. in its original state), or it can go through the compacting process.
Plastic is usually collected separately in recycling, although some collection companies may offer mixed recycling collections. Some waste collectors may be able to take all types of plastic for disposal or recycling, while others may specialise in certain types.
Waste management companies can assess your business’ needs, such as the amount of plastic you use and the ways in which it should be disposed of, and provide a service accordingly.
How to choose a commercial plastic waste disposal provider
While there are a several factors to consider when selecting a waste management company, the following points will help you in the process:
- Assess the waste – how much of it can be recycled, and how much will have to go to landfill?
- Sort the waste – collection services or providers may be able to advise on how to best sort your plastic waste, which is especially relevant when disposing of scrap plastic
- How to dispose of it – plastic waste can be bought and sold
- Process – can it be easily traced?
- Material – can it be repurposed?
- Regulations – does the company meet British Standards (BSI) or international measures, like ISO?
- Area covered – do you need a local provider, or one that can travel further distances?
After collection, the plastic can be taken to treatment or waste disposal sites in the UK, or it may be exported.
4. How to recycle plastic
Plastic isn’t biodegradable – if it’s sent to landfill, it won’t break down.
When commercial plastic waste is recycled, it goes through the following processes:
- Separated from regular waste
- Sorted – e.g. bottles are squashed, lids are removed (the polymer type will determine if they can go in the same stream or not)
- Stored in containers e.g. bags, bins, sacks or skips
- Separated by colour
- Shredded or granulated
- Dirty materials are cleaned (for example, food waste left on packaging can make it difficult to go