79. How colour drains the value from plastic recycling

Colour can make plastic more eye-catching, but it can also make it far less valuable, dramatically reducing the chances that it will ever be recycled back into packaging. Despite this, brands continue to add vibrant pigments to packaging to grab our attention, and more often than not, it works. In this episode, we unpack why colour is such a problem for recycling and how marketing priorities collide with material value. We also explore real-world success stories, from the removal of green from Sprite bottles to the shift from coloured to transparent milk bottle lids, small changes that make a surprisingly big difference. Plus, are flags rubbish or not, does glass need to be sorted by colour, and could Robbie set a new record for the fastest wheelie bin?Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.We would love you to join our community on DiscordSpecial thanks to our sponsor, EcosuretyTo get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcastOr you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address [email protected] or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.eeTranscripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish websiteTimestamps:How colour drains the value from plastic recycling - 2:11Additions and corrections - 33:14Rubbish or Not: flags - 38:50Rubbish News - 44:51Does glass need to be sorted by colour? - 49:52Residual Rubbish - 54:18 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL