Plastics

The proportion of plastic within the FHE waste stream is rising, so it is likely that recycling plastic will become more important. Plastic bottles, disposable cups and packaging waste all need disposal. Plastics are not widely recycled at the moment, due in part to the variety of different types of plastic and the scarcity of recycling contractors. The FHE sector could apply pressure to suppliers of drinks in plastic bottles, cups and so on to provide some form of recycling operation, preferably at no cost.

Generally each type of plastic should be separated to facilitate recycling.
Some councils and waste contractors may provide a general plastic recycling service where they will uplift mixed plastics and separate the plastic waste into the component types later.
Provision of chilled water at work is becoming increasingly common in many institutions. Although many suppliers will reuse the water container, they do not recycle the plastic disposable cups, so encourage them to provide this option and divert millions of cups from landfill. Alternatively use durable ceramic mugs or glasses (and/or use tap water!)
New technologies, such as feedstock recycling of plastic, should be able to take mixed plastics, but this will not be available for several years depending on economic viability
Save-a-Cup will take only hard polystyrene 6 (PS6) cups (white and light brown plastic) from vending machines.

Further information about plastic recycling:

RECOUP - setting up a scheme
Waste Online including contact list
Remade Scotland
Environmental Information Exchange list useful companies

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Plastics

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