A to Z of Recycling

At Biffa, we are pretty familiar with our recyclables, but we understand that not everyone is an expert in what can and can't be recycled. With labels not always giving consumers all the information, recycling can feel like a confusing minefield of irreparable consequences if we get it wrong.

To stop the headache, we've come up with the A-Z of recycling with common household and business items you might find yourself needing to dispose of and the best way to do it.

A

Aerosols

Empty aerosol containers made from aluminium can be included in your mixed recycling bins. However, the lids, often made from hard plastic, should be disposed of with general waste. Aerosol containers that are full or partially full are considered hazardous and must be disposed of by a specialist or at a household recycling centre. Call your waste operator for guidance on how to dispose of them.

Did you know?... Each year our dedicated aerosol recycling facility processes over 6.5 million aerosols capturing over 15 tonnes of ozone-depleting gases using specialised tanks. They also produce over 1000 tonnes of solvent to be used as a replacement fuel. It's one of only two of its kind in the UK and was recognised by the Environment Agency as Best Available Treatment for aerosols.

Aluminium cans

Recycle any aluminium cans in with your dry mixed recycling bins. Watch our video on how aluminium is recycled.

Aluminium/kitchen foil

Also referred to as tin foil, kitchen foil is today made from aluminium, which can be recycled in household collections if clean. Foil or trays covered in food or grease will contaminate other recycling and prevent it from being recycled and belongs with general waste.

Asbestos

Asbestos is a hazardous material and is no longer used but is still found in older buildings. Asbestos can be dangerous to handle without the correct safety equipment and is best disposed of by a specialist hazardous waste services, like Biffa.