E174 - Why are paper cartons going in the plastic bin?

Why are cartons now going in the plastic bin? It does seem to contradict our usual rule of thumb for composite packaging, where we say to go with the predominant material. If it looks and feels like cardboard, it normally belongs with the cardboard recycling, even if it has a plastic lining. Cartons are the exception. The Government's guidance now recommends councils collect them with plastic recycling, although not every council has made the switch yet. 

This episode of Recycled Content, is the 'Rubbish Question' from episode 89 of Talking Rubbish, which first aired on 9th April 2026.