In the current trend of online buying and selling of items including regular bulk mailing of costly or delicate objects, making use of bubble mailers has become common practice. Such postal bags include some slightly extra soft materials for bump protection to the contents posted inside them, however what do these postal bags do once they are no longer in use? It is important to know the recycle ability of bubble mailers to promote eco-friendliness to the users. This article will look into if bubble mailers are recyclable, the hassles it entails, and options that can reduce carbon footprints.
What Are Bubble Mailers?
Bubble mailers are envelopes for postal dispatches whose inside walls are fitted with air filled bubbles for the protection of the contents during shipment. These mailers are usually made of plastic adhesives in several sized and shaped padded or flat types. They are meant to protect breakable articles like electronic devices, jewelry, or paperwork from damage during shipping to the clients.
Can You Recycle Bubble Mailers?
Many wonder whether it is okay to dump or whether anyone is legally obligated to Dispose bubble mailers properly: the fact is they may not be accepted in any curbside recycling systems. Most of the time, bubble mailers contain a combination of some form of paper and some kind of plastic or bubble wrap inside it, thus making it recyclable in a standard recycling facility less likely.
Basic information is that bubble mailers are not recyclable in most of the recycling bins. There is a chance though that you can find a bubble mailer recycling program in your area and therefore it would be beneficial to inquire about these centres or similar take back programs.
Why Are Bubble Mailers Challenging to Recycle?
The resources incorporated in bubble mailers possess several issues regarding the recycling processes. Most of the time, bubble mailers are almost entirely made of polyethylene, a plastic which can be recycled but often needs very specific recycling techniques. There is the issue of bubble wrap within the pouch which is okay, but if not properly sorted can pollute the recyclables streams.
Furthermore, a variety of recycling facilities do not accept bubble mailers because they are made of mixed components. The absence of appropriate facilities explains why there are few recycling activities. Consequently, structures such as bubble mailers find their way into garbage and might take hundreds of years before degrading.
How to Properly Dispose of Bubble Mailers
Because of these recycling factors, there is a high possibility that these ones are not going to need any recycling and thus they should only be disposed of in good bubble mailers. Below are possible options:
Throwing it into the Landfill: In instances where you cannot locate a recycling centre that takes in bubble mailers, throwing these things in the landfill might be the only option left. But this should really be done in the last option because of the concern for the environment.
Recycling Alternatives: There are some stores and companies that take back plastic mailers. It is worth checking with stores near you or with companies which focus on recycling to see whether they accept bubble mailers.
Reuse: Fully intend to throw away a bubble mailer? Think again: it can be reused. They can be great for sending out items again or you can just use them to keep things in.
Alternatives to Bubble Mailers
If you want to send parcels more eco-friendly, then here are some of the options which you can use:
Recycled Bubble Mailers: In recent time, few companies have focused on producing bubble mailers with recyclable materials. This allows these envelopes to be used even in shipping processes.
Paper Mailers: There are also paper-based padded mailers which are great for ship outs. These are also mostly inert and recyclable so it is environmentally better.
Biodegradable Packaging: Avoid plastic packaging and look for alternatives such as plant-based materials, or composting materials. These types reduce the environmental aspects with respect to the package.
Best Practices for Reducing Waste with Bubble Mailers
For the sake of minimizing the waste that comes along with bubble mailers, the following areas need to be considered:
Reuse Whenever Possible: Use old bubble mailers for different types of packages. Such measures help by enabling several usages without going out to buy more packaging materials.
Educate Yourself and Others: Spread awareness about the recycling issues related to the use of bubble mailers and persuade others in making an informed decision regarding the packaging of products.
Choose Eco-Friendly Alternatives: In the process of sending out having opted for items, look for more biodegradable packing alternatives whenever feasible.
Conclusion
In summary, while bubble mailers are convenient for shipping fragile items, their recyclability is limited. Most bubble mailers cannot be recycled in curbside programs, and they often end up in landfills. Understanding the challenges and exploring alternative packaging options can help reduce waste and promote a more sustainable approach to shipping.
FAQs
Can you recycle bubble wrap mailers?
Bubble wrap mailers are typically not recyclable in curbside programs. Check with local recycling facilities to see if they accept them.
What are recycled bubble mailers?
Recycled bubble mailers are made from previously used materials, offering a more sustainable option for shipping.
Are there companies that accept bubble mailers for recycling?
Some companies and packaing suppliers in Melbourne have take-back programs for bubble mailers. It's advisable to research local options to find a facility that accepts them.
