Did you know that there are many items that we think of as non-recyclable that actually are?! This leads to tonnes of unnecessary waste going to landfill when it could actually be re-used or recycled. We're going to take you through some surprising items that you can recycle, and exactly how to do it...
Coat Hangers
Coat Hangers are often made from multiple different materials such as plastic, metal and wood - all of which are widely recyclable! The best way to recycle your coat hangers is to break them down into their separate components to ensure each material ends up in the correct place. You can find out about where to recycle different materials in your local area by visiting Recycle Now here. You can also have a look online to find specialised coat hanger recycling services or donate the coat hangers to your local charity shop.
Carpet
Recently redecorated and looking to get rid of your old carpet? Instead of sending it to landfill, where tonnes of carpet is wasted every year, you can recycle it! Carpet Recycling UK is a not-for-profit association who aim to promote the sustainable re-use and recycling of carpet across the UK, and they have plenty of tips to help the average homeowner too. Some ways they suggest recycling your carpet is to get in touch with the company you originally purchased it from to see if they have a re-use scheme themselves. You can also upcycle it to line a pond, use as bedding for pets, and to contact your local authority to see if they have the capacity to recycle it.
Electronics
Most electronic equipment (such as computer monitors, mobile phones, TVs etc) can actually be recycled! It is considered somewhat specialist, so you might need to find a professional who knows how to deal with both hazardous and non-hazardous electronic equipment. Some local authorities collect small electrical items as part of their kerbside collection and some larger items can be recycled at your local Household Waste Recycling Centre. There's an easy way to know if your electronics are recyclable or not, simply ask the following questions and if the answer is "yes", to any of these, it is recyclable:
- Does it have a plug?
- Does it use batteries?
- Does it need charging?
- Does it have a picture of a crossed out wheelie bin on it?
Bathroom Suites
If your sink, toilet or bath is still in good condition, consider finding it a new home before disposing of it. If it is cracked, broken or no longer fit for purpose, you can recycle it! Simply take your old toilet or sink to your local Household Waste Recycling Centre. Some recycling centres will ask you to put these items into the Hardcore and Rubble skips, while others have skips just for ceramic items so always be sure to check. It's also a good idea to remove any taps or plugs from these items as they can go into the Mixed Metals skips.
If you're ever unsure whether something can be recycled or not, Recycle Now has all the information you need about recycling all kinds of materials and products! You can also ask your local authority how to dispose of goods once you are done with them. You can read more about how we use recycled materials here, and to get involved with Global Recycling Day, click here.