Can You Recycle Packing Peanuts?
Last updated: 4 April 2026
Can You Recycle Packing Peanuts?
Last reviewed by Sarah Chen on 01 April 2026
Starch-based packing peanuts dissolve in water and are compostable. polystyrene recycling peanuts aren't recyclable curbside but shipping stores often accept them.
Packing peanuts come in two main types: biodegradable ones made from cornstarch or wheat, which you can usually toss into your garden or compost bin, and polystyrene (styrofoam recycling) ones that are harder to recycle. The latter pose a recycling challenge because they're lightweight yet take up lots of space.
According to the UN Global E-Waste Monitor 2024, only 22.3% of e-waste was properly collected and recycled in 2022.
Why Packing Peanuts Isn't Easy to Recycle
Polystyrene packing peanuts aren't easy to recycle due to their material composition and the logistics involved in handling them. These polystyrene peanuts don't break down easily, making it difficult for local kerbside or curbside recycling programs to process them efficiently. Additionally, they're light but bulky, which complicates transportation costs.How to Recycle Packing Peanuts Properly
To recycle polystyrene packing peanuts properly, contact local shipping stores like UPS or FedEx in the UK and US-they often have drop-off points for these materials. Alternatively, check if your community has a recycling centre dedicated to handling such items. In the US, companies like Earth911 provide searchable databases of locations that accept various types of packing peanuts.Alternatives to Throwing Packing Peanuts Away
Instead of throwing away packing peanuts, consider reusing them for future shipments or donations. You can also swap out polystyrene ones for biodegradable alternatives made from cornstarch or wheat when you order online. If you have a local shipping store that accepts used packing peanuts, ask if they offer reuse programmes where you can bring back your stash.FAQ
Can I put packing peanuts in my compost bin?
Yes, you can toss starch-based packing peanuts into your compost pile as they break down naturally and don't harm the environment. Polystyrene ones won't decompose in a home composting system though.Are there any companies that offer packaging reuse programmes?
Several shipping stores like UPS and FedEx have initiatives where customers can bring back used packing materials for reuse or recycling.How much of an environmental impact do non-recyclable packing peanuts have?
Non-recyclable polystyrene packing peanuts contribute significantly to landfill waste. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in 2018, about 345 million tons of municipal solid waste was generated in the US, with a significant portion being made up of non-biodegradable materials like polystyrene packing peanuts.Sources
- UN Global E-Waste Monitor 2024
- Consumer Technology Association
- Counterpoint Research
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put packing peanuts in my compost bin?
Yes, you can toss starch-based packing peanuts into your compost pile as they break down naturally and don't harm the environment. Polystyrene ones won't decompose in a home composting system though.
Are there any companies that offer packaging reuse programmes?
Several shipping stores like UPS and FedEx have initiatives where customers can bring back used packing materials for reuse or recycling.
How much of an environmental impact do non-recyclable packing peanuts have?
Non-recyclable polystyrene packing peanuts contribute significantly to <a href="/glossary/landfill">landfill</a> waste. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in 2018, about 345 million tons of municipal solid waste was generated in the US, with a significant portion being made up of non-biodegradable materials like polystyrene packing peanuts.