Cartons are recyclable

The wood fibre and other materials are put to good use at the end of the carton's life cycle. 

How are cartons recycled?

The recycling process separates the paperboard from the carton's polymer and aluminium layers, enabling the high quality fibre used in the paperboard to be used for new products including paper bags, envelopes, plasterboard liner, cardboard boxes, cereal boxes and other packages for consumer goods, gypsum board, textile and paper cores.

Carton fibre is very strong and long and is therefore an ideal substitute for virgin pulp in these materials. The residual material, which includes some aluminium and some plastic, can be used in a number of different applications ranging from broom handles, to energy recovery, roof tiles and a range of novelty items.

Working with local authorities

ACE UK has contributed substantial funding to ensure that nearly 90% of local authorities provide recycling facilities for cartons, with ACE UK providing a fully paid-for bring bank solution for local authorities who do not yet have carton recycling in place.

ACE is working closely with local authorities to increase kerbside collection, as well as provide facilities for schools and local businesses.

In addition to its work with local authorities, the beverage carton industry promotes and facilitates the recycling of cartons among the recycling industry and with consumers. It meets regularly with environmental decision makers and stakeholders - from government bodies to environmental NGOs - to discuss carton recycling matters.