Chloe Zhang
Blister packs are a type of plastic packaging that is used to package a variety of products, from medications to toys. They are typically made of rigid plastics such as high-density polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, or polypropylene, and can be challenging to recycle due to the mix of materials they contain. While some communities accept blister packs in their curbside recycling programs, others do not, and the complex recycling process for blister packs has led to them being described as a nightmare. However, advancements in recycling technology and the development of new recyclable materials offer hope for improved blister pack recycling in the future.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Recyclability | Blister packs can be recycled, but they are often not recycled due to challenges in collection and sorting. |
| Plastic Type | High-density polyethylene (resin ID code #2), polyvinyl chloride (#3), or polypropylene (#5) |
| Recycling Process | Separate all components by tearing away paper or metal before placing blister packs in the recycling bin. Recycle cardboard backing and plastic container separately. |
| Industry Usage | Commonly used by retailers, especially for batteries, medications, and toys. |
| Environmental Impact | Plastic packaging accounts for a significant portion of plastic waste, and its recyclability is important for sustainability. |
| Collection Rules | Varies by region; some areas accept blister packs in curbside programs or provide special drop-off programs for plastic containers. |
| Pharmacy Recycling | Some pharmacies, like Superdrug, offer blister pack recycling or take-back schemes. |
| Online Tools | Online resources like RE:Source guide help users find environmentally responsible ways to manage waste. |
| Innovations | Klöckner Pentaplast's kpNext is a recyclable PET blister film, providing a sustainable alternative to conventional materials. |
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What You'll Learn
- Blister packs are recyclable but not via home collection
- The plastic in blister packs is either high-density polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride or polypropylene
- Blister packs are a big headache for the recycling industry
- Blister packs can be recycled at some pharmacies
- Blister packs with cardboard backing can be separated and recycled
Blister packs are recyclable but not via home collection
Blister packs are typically made of plastic, either high-density polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, or polypropylene, and are used to package a wide range of products, from medications to toys. They fall into the category of rigid plastics, which can be challenging to transport for recycling due to their inability to be crushed and baled. However, advancements in recycling technology have made it possible for materials recovery facilities (MRFs) to identify and separate resins, making it easier to recycle these packs.
While blister packs are technically recyclable, the process is not as simple as throwing them into your home recycling bin. They often contain multiple materials, such as plastic, cardboard, paper, or metal, which need to be separated before recycling. The plastic component of blister packs can be recycled, but it is essential to check with your local recycling guidelines to ensure it is accepted in your area. Some communities now accept rigid plastics in their curbside recycling programs, but this varies by location.
If your local recycling program does not accept blister packs, there are still ways to ensure they are recycled properly. Many pharmacies, such as Superdrug, offer take-back schemes for medication blister packs, providing an alternative recycling route. Additionally, some companies offer mail-back solutions, such as the TerraCycle Brigade by Bausch & Lomb for contact lens blister packs.
It is important to note that certain medical waste items, such as inhalers, should not be placed in general rubbish bins due to the harmful gases they contain. Instead, these items should be returned to your local pharmacy for proper disposal. Similarly, medical tests, PPE, faulty hearing aids, and unused medications should be disposed of through take-back schemes or returned to the supplier.
To summarise, while blister packs are recyclable, they may not be accepted by your home collection service. You may need to explore alternative recycling options, such as take-back schemes, mail-back solutions, or specialised recycling services offered by certain companies. Remember to separate the different components of blister packs before recycling to increase the chances of the materials being properly recycled.
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The plastic in blister packs is either high-density polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride or polypropylene
Blister packs are a type of pre-formed plastic packaging used for small consumer goods, foods, and pharmaceuticals. They are typically composed of a thermoformed plastic cavity or pocket with a backing of paperboard or a lidding seal made of aluminium foil or plastic. The plastic used in blister packs can be high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or polypropylene (PP).
HDPE is highly impact-resistant, lightweight, and affordable. It is commonly used for packaging milk jugs, bottles, and other containers. HDPE is also used for retail products like lotion, shampoo, laundry detergent, and bleach. While it is not often the primary material for blister packs, it is recommended for use in bottles for medications, vitamins, and other pharmaceuticals.
PVC is the most basic and versatile material for blister packs, offering low cost and ease of thermoforming. It has excellent mechanical toughness, chemical and weather resistance, and flame retardant properties. PVC is also flexible and not brittle, making it ideal for forming and die-cutting. However, one of its main disadvantages is its poor barrier against moisture and oxygen ingress.
PP is known for its excellent resistance to water, saltwater, and acid solutions, as well as its toughness and fatigue endurance. It has the lowest density among packaging plastics, making it increasingly popular. PP is commonly used for food packaging, such as bottles for ketchup, mustard, or syrup, and containers for yogurt, butter, or margarine. It is also used for clamshells in takeaway meals and deli items.
While blister packs can be challenging for the recycling industry due to their variety and abundance, advancements in recycling sorting technology have made it possible to accept more rigid plastics, including blister packs, in many communities' curbside programs. It is important to separate the different components of blister packs before recycling, removing any paper or metal parts to ensure all materials are properly recycled.
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Blister packs are a big headache for the recycling industry
The term "clamshell packaging" refers to a clear bubble of plastic mounted on a piece of cardboard, often used interchangeably with "blister packs." Retailers favor this type of packaging because it enhances product visibility, deters shoplifting, and is lightweight, durable, and cost-effective. However, the enormous variety of clamshell and blister packaging poses difficulties for recycling facilities in sorting and processing these materials.
Additionally, the presence of sticky labels, food residues, and cardboard backing on blister packs can further complicate the recycling process. Consumers can play a role in improving recyclability by separating the different components of blister packs before placing them in the recycling bin. Removing paper or metal parts increases the likelihood of these materials being recycled, as leaving them connected may result in the paper or aluminum being discarded during the sorting process.
While blister packs can be recycled, they often require special drop-off programs or take-back schemes. Some companies, such as Bausch & Lomb, offer mail-back solutions or in-store recycling programs. Pharmaceutical companies are also making strides toward sustainable packaging, with innovations like Klöckner Pentaplast's kpNext, a recyclable PET blister film that can be recycled in the #1 PET stream.
Despite these efforts, the variety and volume of plastic packaging, including blister packs, continue to pose a significant challenge for the recycling industry, underscoring the importance of sustainable packaging solutions and proper recycling practices by consumers.
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Blister packs can be recycled at some pharmacies
Blister packs are a type of plastic packaging that is typically used for medications, batteries, and toys, among other products. They are made of rigid plastics such as high-density polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, or polypropylene, and can be challenging to recycle due to the difficulty in separating them from other materials, especially when they have sticky labels or food residues. However, advancements in recycling technology have made it possible for materials recovery facilities (MRFs) to recognize and separate resins without the need for resin identification codes. As a result, more communities are now accepting blister packs in their curbside recycling programs.
When it comes to recycling blister packs, it is important to separate all the different components. Any paper or metal should be removed before placing the plastic blister pack in the recycling bin. The paper or aluminum component of blister packs is often thrown away at the MRF if left connected to the plastic. For those who do not have access to blister pack recycling at the curb, some companies offer mail-back solutions. For example, Bausch & Lomb provides a TerraCycle Brigade program for recycling contact lens blister packs.
Additionally, some pharmacies offer take-back schemes for recycling blister packs from medications. For instance, Superdrug Pharmacies in the UK provide a route for recycling blister packs. Other pharmacy chains, such as Lloyds, may also offer similar services, so it is worth checking with your local branch. Hospitals may also have take-back recycling services for medication packaging.
It is important to note that while blister packs can be recycled, they should not be placed in home recycling collections. Instead, they should be taken to designated drop-off points or returned to pharmacies or hospitals for proper disposal and recycling. Furthermore, certain medical items, such as inhalers, should not be thrown into general rubbish bins due to the harmful gases they contain. These items can be returned to local pharmacies for safe disposal.
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Blister packs with cardboard backing can be separated and recycled
Blister packs are a type of plastic packaging that is commonly used for medications and toys. They are typically made from rigid plastics such as high-density polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, or polypropylene. While blister packs can be recycled, they often come with a cardboard backing that needs to be separated before disposal.
The process of recycling blister packs starts with separating the plastic container from the cardboard backing. The cardboard can be easily torn away and recycled separately, while the plastic container can be placed in the recycling bin. It is important to note that the plastic container should not be crushed or baled like plastic bottles but instead kept rigid for recycling.
Some blister packs may also have a paper insert or aluminium foil backing that needs to be removed before recycling. The paper insert can be recycled separately, while the aluminium foil can be challenging to separate from the plastic. However, specialised recycling facilities can handle this process, ensuring that the materials are properly cleaned and recycled into new products.
While blister packs can be recycled, they are not always accepted by standard household waste collections or local councils. Instead, they may need to be dropped off at specific collection points, such as pharmacies or recycling centres, that participate in blister pack recycling initiatives. Some companies, like Superdrug and TerraCycle, offer dedicated blister pack recycling services, making it easier for consumers to responsibly dispose of their blister packs.
It is important to check with your local recycling guidelines to understand the specific process for blister pack disposal in your area. By properly separating and recycling blister packs with cardboard backing, we can reduce waste and contribute to a more sustainable future.
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Frequently asked questions
Blister packs are a type of plastic container that can be recycled. However, they are often made up of multiple materials, such as plastic and cardboard, or plastic and paper, which need to be separated before recycling. In the past, blister packs were not commonly recycled due to challenges in transporting rigid plastics and sorting them from other materials. However, advancements in recycling technology and an increasing number of communities accepting rigid plastics in curbside programs have made recycling blister packs more feasible.
To recycle plastic blister packaging, separate all the different components. Remove any paper, cardboard, or metal parts and recycle them separately. Then, place the plastic blister pack in your recycling bin. Some local pharmacies, hospitals, or companies may also offer take-back recycling solutions or mail-back programs for blister packs.
Plastic blister packaging is commonly used by retailers due to its durability, product visibility, and theft protection. However, there is a growing consumer preference for sustainable packaging. Alternatives to plastic blister packaging include cardboard boxes or paper instruction leaflets for medications. In some cases, no packaging may be necessary, reducing waste and contributing to a more sustainable future.
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