What Is Bubble Wrap Made From?
Bubble wrap is a little more complicated to recycle, but to understand why you need to know what it’s made from. The majority of bubble wrap is made from a thin, soft plastic that is called #4 low density polyethylene (LDPE). It’s exactly the same material plastic bags from shops are made from. This material is great for transportation and protection because it’s simultaneously flexible and relatively strong.
However, it’s these qualities that make plastic films such as LDPE film much more difficult to recycle. Their high tensile strength means they are more likely to get caught in the machines at a recycling facility, which can lead to damaged equipment and injuries. Most recycling programs may prohibit bubble wrap, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be recycled.
Your standard recycling program is probably not equipped to deal with bubble wrap and only deals with a general waste. This includes all of the common forms of recyclables such as cardboard boxes, glass, paper, tins and plastic bottles.
