A couple of years ago I wrote a post called ‘High Street and Supermarket Recycling Schemes‘ and it’s been insanely popular ever since. I’ve updated it a few times, the more recycling schemes I’ve found. However, I felt it was time for a fresh post featuring even more schemes I’ve come across when out and about.
Like the previous post, I’ll continuously add to this, if I find any others worth mentioning – so this will be kept up to date!
Supermarket Recycling
Children’s toys at Tesco – A unique recycling bin I’ve recently found, that I’ve never come across before is a plastic toy recycling bin, found in Tesco (UK). They accept everything from broken plastic toys to soft toys and are processed by the company Wastebuster. Find out more: here.
Medicine Blister Pack Recycling at Aldi. In a ‘Supermarket first’ Aldi are now trailing blister pack recycling. You must request an envelope via the Aldi website, and you can send them via any Royal Mail Post Office or post box with a Freepost shipping label. Request an envelope here.
High Street Recycling Schemes
Batteries, Light bulbs & more at Robert Dyas. There are all sorts of home things you can recycle here. Most are listed at the front of the shop (as pictured). However, there is so much more you’re able to recycle including light bulbs and electrical items. Ask a shop assistant whether they accept your item, and I find they’re always happy to advise!
Pens at Rymans. Like most people, I go through pens like nobody’s business. Well, Rymans happily collect pens which have run out for recycling (across all their stores). On my last visit, I couldn’t find a specific bin for them. The shop assistant did, however, happily take mine off me at the counter.
At Rymans, you can recycle batteries, ink cartridges and SodaStream cylinders too. Find out more: here.
Glasses & Contact Lenses at Specsavers. If your prescription changes, and you’re left with a pair of glasses (or contacts) you can no longer wear, you can recycle them at Specsavers. They have collaborated with MYgroup in order to offer this and have lots of information on the recycling process on their website. They have dedicated recycling boxes in most Specsavers stores.
Textiles at Dunelm. Any old household textiles, cushion covers or curtains, for example, can be recycled at Dunelm. Unfortunately, they don’t accept bedding. However, this bin is a great scheme for textiles around your house that have had better days!
I wish we had more of these kinds of programs in Canada. I used to take my pens and ink cartridges to Staples, but they don’t seem to offer that service any more.
That’s such a shame you have limited recycling options – hoping this will improve for you!