Are vinyl recycling stickers recyclable in the UK?
Vinyl recycling stickers are commonly used on domestic and commercial recycling bins, and for good reason. Not only do they help people identify what goes in each bin, but they’re also durable, waterproof, and weather-resistant. So far, so good. But what happens when you want to remove your sticker if it’s faded, damaged, or the information is outdated? Can you recycle it? This is where it gets tricky.
What are vinyl stickers made of?
Vinyl stickers are made from PVC, a durable plastic that’s really resistant to wear and tear. However, it’s exactly this that makes them hard to recycle. Unlike other plastics like PET or HDPE, PVC doesn't break down so easily and requires specialist processing. Vinyl stickers also have a layer of adhesive that interferes with recycling machinery, making it difficult to separate materials. Then there’s the ink used on the stickers, which can contain chemicals that render them unrecyclable. While some specialist recyclers will accept them for recycling, most facilities won’t, so they end up in landfill.
What are the alternatives to vinyl recycling stickers?
The good news is there are some sustainable sticker options for your recycling bins.
Biodegradable stickers
These are often made from plant-based materials derived from sugar cane or wood pulp. This means they’ll break down over time without harming the environment. Another bonus is that they’re often compostable. Many biodegradable stickers use non-toxic, water-based adhesives too which break down without leaving behind a harmful residue.
PET plastic stickers
If you’re looking for a greener way to label your recycling bins, PET plastic stickers are a great alternative to vinyl. PET stickers can be recycled alongside PET packaging and as many use wash-off adhesives, they separate easily during the recycling process. So, instead of ending up in landfill, these stickers can be reprocessed into new plastic bottles or packaging, helping to reduce plastic waste. As well as the sustainability advantages, PET recycling stickers are also a practical choice. They’re durable, waterproof, and resistant to wear, making them perfect for outdoor bins that have to withstand the famously changeable British weather.
So, what’s the verdict?
While vinyl stickers might seem like the obvious choice for your recycling bins, they're not exactly doing the planet any favours when it comes to easy disposal. Yes, we get the irony; something that’s designed to help make recycling easier can’t actually be recycled itself. But if you’re a homeowner or business looking to make a sustainable choice, there are some great alternatives. Whether you opt for biodegradable options that break down naturally over time, or choose PET stickers you can easily recycle, know that you’re making a good choice for the environment. Your bins will still look the part, people will know where to put their recycling, and you can rest assured that when it’s time to refresh your recycling stickers, they won’t end up in landfill.
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