Somerset Council and their collections contractor, SUEZ recycling and recovery UK are among the first in the country to start collecting empty toothpaste tubes for recycling at the kerbside.

Recent changes to the materials used in the production of toothpaste tubes means that most can now be recycled in the Bright Blue Bag – so long as it says ‘recyclable’ on the tube.

Nationally, it is estimated that around 3 million toothpaste tubes are thrown away each year.

Councillor Richard Wilkins said: “We’re always looking at ways to recycle more materials from home. With toothpaste tubes an item that everyone has, being able to recycle from home is great news.

“By simply using up as much as possible and placing them in your bright blue recycling bag, you can help reduce plastic waste from being thrown in the bin.”

Adam Herriott, Senior Sector Specialist at WRAP (the Waste and Resources Action Programme) commented: “It’s fantastic news that toothpaste tubes are now recyclable and Somerset is leading the way by collecting them.”

 Residents should make sure they have squeezed out as much as possible and check that their toothpaste tubes are made from recyclable materials. Most toothpaste tubes are, but it’s always good to double-check – look for the recycling symbol.

Other types of toothpaste containers, including plastic pumps and metal tubes can also be recycled via the Bright Blue Bag.

The bag can also be used to recycle plastic pots, tubs and trays, tins, cans, foil and aerosols. The materials are sorted at a Materials Recycling Facility to be reprocessed into new products and packaging.

Residents can check online for details of what items can be collected from the kerbside: www.somerset.gov.uk/waste 

Somerset Council publish an annual recycling tracker showing residents where their recycling goes. Last year 96% of Somerset’s recycling stayed in the UK.