Milk Bottles
News
Glass bottles on a production line.

Market prices

The fact that 65% of the population are now committed recyclers (people who do over and above the average to recycle) is a real success - indicating that recycling has become a way of life for two thirds of the population.

Recycling markets are showing signs of improvement, however evidence from traders we contacted for our materials pricing survey suggests that the Chinese market is fragile, and prices for cardboard and plastic could come under pressure.

25 February 2009 -
WRAP Materials Pricing Update

A man disposing newspaper in the bring bank

Recycling is the best environmental option

It is good for the environment, saves energy, reduces raw material extraction and helps combat climate change.  When recycling is not an option then recovery of energy from waste can contribute to a balanced energy policy.

Key links

Env Ben Summ cover- small thumbnailEnvironmental Benefits of Recycling - Exec Summary (821 kb)
Env Ben Full cover- small thumbnailEnvironmental Benefits of Recycling - Full Report (2136 kb)
Mixed Plastics cover- small thumbnailLCA of Management Options for Mixed Waste Plastics (916 kb)
China report cover- small thumbnailCO2 impacts of transporting the UK's recovered paper and plastic bottles to China (233 kb)