Toothpaste tubes are now 100% recyclable across the UK
LONDON: Toothpaste tubes — long considered one of the most frustrating items to recycle — are now officially 100% recyclable across the UK. The breakthrough comes after leading toothpaste manufacturers, including Colgate and Haleon, partnered with the Waste And Resources Action Programme (WRAP) to transition all toothpaste tubes sold nationwide to recyclable polyethylene.
Why this change matters
For years, toothpaste tubes were made from a combination of plastic and aluminum, making them nearly impossible to recycle. This industry-wide shift means millions of used tubes will now stay out of landfills, helping reduce plastic waste and supporting the UK’s broader sustainability goals.
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How to recycle toothpaste tubes
While many local authorities are gradually adding toothpaste tubes to kerbside recycling collections, consumers who do not yet have access can still recycle their tubes by taking them to participating Boots stores. As part of the Recycle At Boots scheme, customers will also earn Advantage Card points for every tube they recycle — turning sustainability into a rewarding habit.
Industry reaction
Experts and industry leaders have welcomed this milestone:
- Catherine David, CEO of WRAP: “We’ve taken one of the most infuriating household items and made it recyclable. Dentists are the frontline of behaviour change, and we hope they will encourage patients to recycle their toothpaste tubes too.”
- Adrian Sen, Sustainability Innovation Senior Manager, Colgate-Palmolive: “We aim to contribute to a healthier planet through sustainable practices and are dedicated to converting all of our toothpaste tubes to recyclable plastic.”
- Joe Muscat, Environmental Sustainability & Innovation Director, Haleon: “Making toothpaste tubes recyclable is a major step forward in reducing plastic waste. We are proud to play a leading role in turning daily oral care into a more sustainable habit.”
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Public awareness during recycle week
This announcement aligns with Recycle Week 2025 (September 22–28), a perfect time to raise public awareness. According to WRAP research, 8 in 10 people still throw away items that could be recycled, highlighting the need for greater education and action.
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