How Can I Recycle or Reuse My Wheelie Bin

How Can I Recycle or Reuse My Wheelie Bin?

Some local authorities have downsized or even removed wheelie bins completely in favour of recycling boxes or sacks, which has left some residents wondering what will happen to their faithful bins.

Plastic wheelie bins are designed to be robust and resistant to damage from substances. The plastic they’re made from is versatile and virtually indestructible, which makes it ideal for the job, but these very qualities are also what makes plastic a big problem for the environment.

The problem with plastic

• Plastic is made from petroleum, so its production is dependent on oil, which is both a finite resource and highly polluting to the environment.
• Some plastics are not recyclable. The black plastic used to manufacture ready meal trays is particularly hard to recycle.
• Plastic is not biodegradable, so when it is sent to landfill, it doesn’t break down, and leaches toxins into the soil and waterways.
• Incinerating plastic releases dangerous toxins into the air.
• Much of the plastic we use ends up in the ocean where it can cause harm to animals and fragile ecosystems.

How can I reuse my wheelie bin?

If your council withdraws wheelie bins or you find that you no longer need yours, why not put it to good use? Here are some ideas on how you can reuse your old bin, and protect the environment:

• If you have an allotment or you’re a keen gardener, why not drill some holes in the bin to make a water butt or compost bin?
• Use them as dry storage for plant pots, bamboo canes, plastic sheets, nets, or woodchips
• Use them to store firewood if you have a wood burner
• Cut them in half to make a quirky garden planter or even a wheelbarrow!

What about our bins?

Some of our bins are made from recycled plastic, so you can be reassured that your beloved bin has already been made into something useful! Browse our range here .