Plastic Recycling
Plastic waste is generated across almost every business environment, from packaging and logistics materials to everyday operational use. While some plastics can be included in commingled recycling, many require dedicated handling to ensure they are properly recovered.
Plastic recycling services provide a structured way to manage both rigid and soft plastics, helping reduce landfill volumes and improve overall recycling outcomes.
Wasteflex coordinates plastic recycling programs across Australia, helping organisations improve plastic recovery outcomes by aligning collection services with operational workflows and broader waste management strategies.
Understanding Different Types of Plastic Waste
Not all plastics are handled the same way. Identifying the type of plastic waste generated is critical to determining the right recycling approach.
Soft Plastics
Soft plastics require separate handling and are not suitable for commingled recycling.
Common examples include:
- Stretch wrap recycling (used in logistics and warehousing)
- Pallet wrap recycling
- Plastic films and shrink wrap
- Soft packaging materials
Effective soft plastic recycling requires dedicated collection systems to keep materials clean and suitable for processing.
Rigid Plastics
Rigid plastics include:
- Bottles and containers
- Hard plastic packaging
- Food and beverage containers
These materials are commonly accepted in commingled recycling, depending on site setup.
Why Plastic Recycling Requires a Dedicated Approach
Plastic waste is often generated in high volumes and can quickly build up across operational areas. Without the right systems, it can create storage challenges, safety risks and unnecessary disposal costs.
Separating plastics into appropriate streams allows businesses to:
- Improve recycling recovery rates
- Reduce contamination in commingled recycling
- Manage high-volume packaging waste more efficiently
- Reduce reliance on landfill
- Support sustainability and ESG targets
A structured plastic waste management approach ensures materials are directed to the correct recycling pathways.
What Can Be Recycled Through Plastic Recycling?
Plastic recycling programs help organisations recover valuable materials, reduce landfill disposal and support circular economy initiatives. Many businesses generate significant volumes of recyclable plastics that can be separated from general waste and processed into new products.
Common recyclable plastics include:
- Plastic bottles and containers
- PET plastics
- HDPE plastics
- Plastic packaging
- Plastic drums and pails
- Plastic film and shrink wrap
- Industrial plastic waste
- Manufacturing plastic offcuts
Accepted materials may vary depending on local recycling facilities and processing requirements.
