The Simpler Recycling regulations changed the rules earlier this year, but it’s not always clear what can and can’t be recycled at home
Many of us will have a collection of supermarket plastic bags at home(Image: Bloomberg, Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Most households likely have several supermarket carrier bags lying around. They’re a lot sturdier than they used to be, with these ‘bags for life’ intended for repeated use.
However, if you’ve got too many or yours have endured one shopping trip too many, you might be wondering how to get rid of them responsibly.
Recycling regulations underwent changes earlier this year when the Simpler Recycling rules took effect. With growing uncertainty surrounding household recycling guidelines, one bin collector on social media is addressing your questions.
‘Binfluencer’ No1 Binman on TikTok has amassed a following of more than 170,000 through his practical advice on navigating collection day. Recently, someone enquired about Tesco bags and whether they can be recycled.
They said: “Can someone settle a debate for me. Tesco bags, are they recyclable? Says on them they are, but it doesn’t feel right.”
Households in England now must follow the new Simpler Recycling rules(Image: Getty Images)
In short, the binman confirmed that carrier bags are indeed recyclable – though the process isn’t straightforward. He explains they cannot be put in any household recycling containers.
If you wish to recycle them, you can return them to the supermarket, where they should accept them for recycling.
The reason behind keeping them out of domestic bins is that they can jam machinery at recycling facilities, which he notes ‘won’t make them very happy’.
The most effective disposal method is to place them in your regular rubbish bin or to continue using them as intended.
Content cannot be displayed without consentCan you recycle paper bags?
Different guidelines apply to paper carrier bags. Specialists at Best Pac UK explained: “The great news for the environment is that yes, paper bags can be recycled, but only if they’re actually made from paper.
“Whilst most plastic bags, for example, are not recyclable, almost all types of paper bags can be recycled, helping to reduce the amount of plastic landfill sitting on the earth and polluting our oceans.”
The exception is laminated paper bags, which feature an additional plastic film coating applied to the paper and are frequently used to line bags for food products and perishable goods.
Due to this lamination treatment, these particular bags are unsuitable for recycling.