Are Zip Ties Recyclable?

If you constantly have to move wire cables from one place to another, you know just how easy it is to end with tons of zip ties. And disposing of them can be tricky, especially if you’re trying to be sustainable.

Fortunately, that’s what we’re going to talk about in this post.

Can you recycle zip ties?

While used zip ties can be recycled, they aren’t accepted by most curbside recycling programs. This is mainly because these ties are too small to be recycled at their facilities.

Also, since they are thin, it’s difficult for the sorting machines at these facilities to process the ties. This makes it easy for them to get mixed up with other recyclables and cause contamination. Ultimately, this can make the whole recycling stream end up in a landfill.

So, if you want to recycle zip ties, you have to look for recyclers that accept them and then deliver your ties to them.

Once they’re at the facility, your zip ties will be melted and used to create new products.

Are cable ties biodegradable?

Since cable ties are usually made of plastic, they aren’t biodegradable. However, some manufacturers have started producing biodegradable cable ties in recent years.

These ties are commonly made from bioplastic derived from vegetable oil and can withstand the outdoors quite well. Generally, they need at least 2 years of exposure to microorganisms, water, heat, and UV light to fully biodegrade.

Are cable ties eco-friendly?

No, cable ties aren’t eco-friendly. This is mainly because they are made of plastic – a material that is not only derived from petroleum but is also responsible for a lot of pollution.

Also, a lot of cable ties are single-use, causing more waste than their reusable counterparts.

What can you do with old zip ties?

If you use reusable zip ties, you can reuse them in a variety of ways. These include:

1. To hold your Christmas decorations

Not only will zip ties hold your lights, wreaths, and garlands properly, but they’ll also pull through all season long. What’s more, these ties usually come in a variety of colors that can further compliment your decorations.

2. To childproof your home

If you’re expecting some children over and don’t want to invest in cabinet locks, you can reuse your zip ties to do some childproofing – they are just as effective.

3. To hang tools

All you have to do is loop an old zip tie through the hole in your broom’s handle and you can easily hang it on a hook or nail. You can do this with a variety of tools including dustpans and shovels.

Go the extra mile

Ultimately, if you want to recycle zip ties, you’re going to have to go the extra mile and look for a suitable recycling facility or find a way to reuse them. If the hassle is too much for you though, it may be time for you to switch to a more eco-friendly alternative.