Recycling bulk bags is an important way to reduce plastic waste, divert material from landfill, and support your business’s sustainability goals. When done properly, recycling used FIBCs (Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers) contributes to the circular economy by allowing polypropylene to be repurposed into new products—minimising reliance on virgin plastic. In this article, we’ll explain how and where to recycle your old bulk bags in the UK, and why it matters.
Polypropylene Bulk Bag Recycling: Landfill or Circular Economy?
Most FIBC bulk bags are made from woven polypropylene, a tough, tear-resistant thermoplastic that can handle demanding environmental conditions which makes it ideal for use in construction and industrial packaging.
Importantly, polypropylene is recyclable. It is classified as plastic #5 under the international Resin Identification Code, often marked on packaging with a recycling triangle containing the number 5 or the letters PP. When cleaned and properly sorted, used polypropylene bulk bags can be processed into new materials such as packaging products, garden furniture, storage containers, and more.
Where to Recycle Bulk Bags in the UK
Recycling capabilities for polypropylene vary across the UK. While it is classified as widely recyclable, not all local authorities accept woven polypropylene bags via kerbside collection. This is particularly true for larger, commercial-grade bags used in construction or industrial settings.
Best practice for recycling FIBCs includes:
- Checking with your local authority to confirm if plastic #5 (woven PP) is accepted.
- Working with commercial recycling providers who specialise in bulk plastic recovery.
- Cleaning the bags before drop-off, especially if they’ve been used to transport food products, chemicals, or hazardous materials. Some facilities require bags to be free from contamination before they can be processed.
Bulk Bags From Cliffe Packaging – Designed for Recycling
At Cliffe Packaging, all of our woven polypropylene bulk bags are designed with recyclability in mind. However, to ensure proper end-of-life disposal, it’s essential to check recycling requirements in your area or consult with a licensed waste management company. Whenever possible, bulk bags should be recycled—not sent to landfill.
Where recycling is not feasible due to contamination or logistical issues, energy recovery through incineration may be an alternative. This process can convert waste material into usable energy, though it is considered less sustainable than mechanical recycling and should only be used as a last resort.
Next Steps: Make Recycling Part of Your Process
Ready to take action? Download our free Pack For A Greener Future Guide for practical advice on reducing waste, improving your sustainability credentials, and making informed recycling decisions for your packaging materials.
If you're unsure where to start or need help identifying a suitable recycling partner, our team is here to help. Contact us today by clicking here or call Cliffe Packaging on 0845 481 1200 to learn more.
Image source: HubSpot
