A Complete Guide to What Can Be Recycled

At a glance, recycling seems simple — it is, for the most part.

However, this critical waste reduction practice isn’t possible for all materials, and some require different processes. From garden waste to textiles, recycling takes different shapes and forms.

When it comes to skip hire in Kent, it's not just about general waste skips. Recycling is a crucial component. This keeps your output sustainable and benefits the environment for future generations. If you’re opting for a skip container for your commercial or domestic project, keep reading. In this blog, we’re outlining everything you need to know about recycle categories and processes before you book.

What Is Recycling?

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Recycling is defined as the process of converting materials into new products or materials while focusing on conserving resources and reducing overall waste output. Recycling is integral to being sustainable, and it’s a great way to recover high-quality materials once they’ve reached the end of their lifespan.

Most skip hire companies offer recycling services these days. But it’s always worth double-checking your chosen yard skip provider’s processes before making a financial commitment. This way, you can ensure your waste is disposed of properly via necessary recycling means.

Materials That Can Be Recycled

If you’re new to recycling, don’t worry. We’ve compiled a complete list of recyclable materials to ensure you understand which materials can be recycled before deciding on a waste management strategy.

• Glass — Glass jars, bottles, and objects can be recycled. However, you’ll need to separate the glass by colour before disposing of them.

• Paper — Nearly all paper can be recycled. This includes envelopes, newspapers, magazines, and cardboard.

• Plastic — A selection of plastic can be recycled, but you can’t recycle plastic bags and films. In the UK, plastic types 1, 2, 4, and 5 can be recycled.

• Organic waste — Garden waste, food scraps, and general natural/outdoor waste can be composted.

• Textiles — Clothing and other textiles can be recycled, but these need to be separated and delivered to textile waste specialists.

• Metal — Almost all types of metal can be recycled. Iron and steel are recycled the most in the UK.

Hazardous waste can be recycled, but only teams with specialist equipment and skills can assist with these materials. Examples of hazardous waste include chemicals, asbestos, batteries, paints, and tyres. Lots of these can be found in house clearance jobs, so keep an eye out. TW Services offers hazardous waste removal services to ensure you can fulfil your project objectives with a clear space. Find out about skip weight capacity, too, to make sure you order the right size.

Frequently Asked Recycling Questions

Here are some of the top questions we receive about skip hire and recycling.

Can Soil Be Recycled?

Soil can be recycled — but not in the typical recycling definition. For example, soil can’t be transformed into a new product, but can go through the ‘soil remediation’ process. This involves taking old soil and restoring it to its original state via contaminant removal, adding nutrients, and improving its structure.

What Recycles for the Most Scrap?

The materials that recycle for the most scrap tend to depend on market demands. However, some materials are continually desired, such as copper, aluminium, steel, plastics, and paper. Ask your local recycling or skip provider for details on in-demand scrap materials in your area.

Does TW Services Recycle?

TW Services is committed to providing sustainable waste management. With over 25 years of professional skip hire service, we’ve developed reliable recycling processes that can treat 750,000 tonnes of waste per year. Our 20-acre site in Richborough Hall has the latest recycling equipment and the latest sustainable innovations. So no matter what size skip you order, we'll help you make it an eco-conscious job.

Recycling Your Skip Waste: The Takeaway

Recycling is integral to waste management and a greener future. We hope this blog has demonstrated the importance of recycling and helped you understand how to tackle recycling. Every small action helps the environment and creates new materials for tomorrow’s projects, whether you're a business owner or an individual.

Whether you need quick domestic waste removal or assistance with a large construction project, TW Services is on hand to offer Kent-based skip hire. Reach out today to get a quote on your waste needs from commercial skip hire prices to one-off domestic skip hire costs.