Recycling of HDPE plastic bottles in UK reaches 79% in 2013

Recycling levels of high density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic milk bottles in the UK increased to 79% last year in the UK, according to a survey by Recoup Recycling.

The survey estimates that of the 316,054t of plastic bottles accumulated for recycling in 2012, 96,396t were HDPE milk bottles.

Commenting on the survey, UK-based plastic milk bottle producer Nampak Plastics stated that it led the way in sustainable plastic packaging in 2013 with the launch of its Infini bottle version with up to 30% recycled HDPE.

Nampak Plastics managing director Eric Collins said, "We are thrilled with the continued progress being shown in the sector. It is something we feel is incredibly important.

"At Nampak we strive to ensure not only our bottles, but also our manufacturing processes, are providing the most sustainable solution possible.

"As such, these results are very encouraging and we hope to see even further improvement this year."

Recoup Recycling technical manager Steve Morgan said, "Nampak is a valued member of Recoup, working towards challenging plastic packaging recycling targets in the UK.

"Recoup celebrates the continued and increasing success of milk bottle recycling in the UK; however, there is more that can be done."

The company plans to further increase collection levels of all plastic bottles later this year, as part of a national plastic recycling communications initiative.

Morgan said, "We’re looking forward to continuing to work with Nampak to improve plastics recycling in the UK."