Are Stickers Recyclable in the UK?
Stickers and labels are handy for organising and decorating. However, what should we do with stickers after use? With increasing awareness about the importance of sustainable packaging, it’s essential to know how to dispose of stickers and labels responsibly. But what are the options available? Can we recycle stickers in the UK? And is it possible to order eco-friendly stickers?
Stickers and Recycling
Usually, stickers are made from a mix of materials. For example, this could be a combination of paper and acrylic-based adhesive or vinyl and animal-derived adhesive.
Unfortunately, not all stickers can be recycled. One of the main reasons for this is that recycling facilities in the UK all have different capabilities. And because of the mixture of materials, some stickers and labels require specialist sorting equipment to separate the composite elements.
Moreover, the glue that fastens the image to an object can affect recycling machines and prevent them from working properly. As a result, many recycling plants reject stickers, and they end up in landfill sites. Some sticker ink can also contaminate the recycling stream.
But are there some stickers that you can recycle? Well, if the sticker, adhesive, and the object it’s attached to are made from the same recyclable material (such as recyclable plastic), then you can recycle it.
On the whole, the advice is to remove labels from your packaging as much as possible before recycling. Our Premium Paper Stickers are available to order with removable adhesive so you can peel them cleanly off products after use. This type of low-tack rubber-based glue means you can remove the labels from your packaging and recycle the different components. And because there’s no residue, you can also use our premium paper stickers on books, gifts, and stationery! Why not order a free sample pack?
Biodegradable Stickers
An alternative to recycling stickers is to choose biodegradable options. Biodegradable stickers gradually break down through natural processes — usually through exposure to fungi, bacteria, plants and natural chemicals.
At StickerShop, we’re committed to reducing our carbon footprint and developing eco-friendly stickers and labels that are stylish and durable.
Our biodegradable stickers are available in a range of shapes and sizes so that you can customise them for your needs. Just as you’ll find with our vinyl stickers, window clings, and foiled stickers, you can personalise your biodegradable stickers and choose multiple artwork designs.
If you’re interested in ordering eco-friendly biodegradable stickers, you can contact us to discuss your options. And don’t worry, you’ll be able to order them through our online shop soon, too!
Waterproof PET and Kraft Paper Stickers
As previously mentioned, stickers made entirely from certain recyclable materials are suitable for recycling. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic, for example, is completely recyclable. This type of plastic is a popular choice for plastic drinking bottles because you can recycle it over and over again. Consumers can put PET items in their kerbside recycling.
We’re excited to announce our upcoming Waterproof PET Sticker collection. As well as being long-lasting, water-resistant and, of course, customisable, these stickers are recyclable. They also have adhesive derived from plant materials, making them vegetarian and vegan friendly.
Our soon-to-be-released Kraft Paper Stickers are also recyclable and vegan friendly. Kraft paper is strong and durable, making it far more rip-resistant than regular paper. Because it’s unbleached, it’s also environmentally friendly and has a beautiful, rustic aesthetic. Our kraft paper stickers are an excellent choice for gift wrapping, wedding decorations and commercial promotion.
Keen to try out some kraft paper stickers or waterproof PET labels? Feel free to drop us an email to chat about your requirements. These stickers will also be available on the StickerShop online store soon.
