Combatting plastic pollution is a mammoth task, and one that relies on working recycling infrastructures as part of the solution. 

So, what do we do to assist this at Ocean Bottle?

Many regions, particularly in the Global South, lack the proper infrastructure to recycle plastic waste, and it ends up accumulating in their rivers, beaches and ocean. That’s where we step in. At Ocean Bottle we prioritise plastic collection in coastal areas worst impacted by the problem and financially support communities that require additional funding to pay plastic collectors, and build recycling facilities. 

However, we know that’s just one piece of the puzzle. 

To truly address the issue, we need a multifaceted approach that includes reducing plastic consumption, improving waste management, and promoting sustainable alternatives. That’s why we also design reusable drinkware, to support a movement away from single-use plastic bottles! 

We want your Ocean Bottle to last you a lifetime. That’s why we champion durability in our design, as well as offering a 10 year warranty on all of our products, meaning we’ll replace defective or broken parts for free, always. If your bottle does reach the end of its life, be sure to save down our recycling guides that show how to recycle them in the best way possible. 

While recycling is crucial, our recycling systems must evolve to meet modern challenges. Innovation is key to making recycling more accessible and efficient for everyone. This involves investing in new technologies, enhancing infrastructure, and implementing supportive policies. Whilst we push as an organisation to transform regulations around plastic pollution, we know that recycling plastic can get confusing for individuals.

So, we've put together this list of commonly used terms you'll see on packaging and what they really mean:

• 1 - PET, used for drinks bottles and some food packaging: Widely recycled
• 2 - HDPE, used for cleaning product bottles, milk cartons, etc: Widely recycled
• 3 - PVC, used for car parts, window fittings, etc: Not easily recyclable
• 4 - LDPE, used for plastic bags and wrapping, etc: Recycle at specialist points
• 5 - PP, used for some tubs and trays etc: Widely recycled
• 6 - PS, used for takeaway boxes, disposable cutlery, etc: Not easily recyclable
• 7 - Other, used for crisp packets, rice packets etc: Recycle at specialist points

For further info on the UK Recycling situation, read this guide we created for Recycle Week 2023 👀.

Overall, we're proud to contribute to the solution, but we recognise that there's still much work to be done. 

With the help and support of initiatives like Global Recycling Day, we can raise awareness and foster systemic changes in the plastic industry - so join us in celebrating its cause!

There are many ways to recognise the day and make a positive impact in your community, both locally and ultimately further afield. Start by recycling at home, work, and public spaces, following local guidelines for proper sorting and look out for local clean-up events.

To reduce the waste you create in the first place and minimise the amount of recycling that's needed, try out our top 3 tips:

- Remember to bring a reusable water bottle and coffee cup with you when you’re out and about. The average UK adult will use 150 plastic bottles and 250 disposable coffee cups each year. Ditching disposables and switching to sustainable solutions will reduce the overall waste created. 

- Prepare meals at home or bring your own container when getting food to go.

- Take note of the volume of plastic packaging used at home, make a list of what products you use daily and see where you can make sustainable swaps.

Together, we can turn the tide and put a stop to plastic pollution!