Drowning in plastic? So is London but not if these top recycling companies have anything to say about it.
As plastic waste continues to pile up in homes, streets, and landfills, finding a trustworthy recycling partner has never been more crucial. London, a global hub of innovation and sustainability, is home to several companies leading the charge against plastic pollution. Whether you’re a local business aiming to boost your green credentials or a household looking for a reliable solution to reduce plastic waste, the right company can make all the difference.
This guide dives into the top 10 plastic recycling companies in London, helping you make informed choices while contributing to a cleaner, greener city.
Why Is Choosing the Right Plastic Recycling Company Crucial for Londoners?
Plastic pollution is a growing concern in London and across the UK. With over two million tonnes of plastic waste generated annually in the country, it’s no surprise that the capital needs effective solutions to manage this challenge. As one of the most populated and industrially active cities in Europe, London has a duty to lead by example in environmental responsibility.
Choosing a reliable plastic recycling company is about more than just disposing of waste. It ensures that plastic is diverted from landfills, supports the city’s sustainability goals, and encourages eco-conscious behaviour among residents and businesses. The right company helps clients remain compliant with environmental regulations, reduce their carbon footprint, and contribute to a circular economy.
What Services Do Plastic Recycling Companies in London Typically Offer?
Plastic recycling companies in London offer a variety of services to meet the needs of both individual households and large businesses. While some companies focus on domestic collections, others provide large-scale commercial solutions, including scheduled pick-ups, on-demand clearance, and full waste management contracts.
Most of these companies handle different types of plastic such as PET, HDPE, and LDPE. Advanced recycling providers also sort, clean, and process plastics into reusable materials for manufacturing.
Additional services often include sustainability reporting, recycling audits, and assistance with achieving environmental compliance certifications. This makes them valuable partners not just in waste disposal, but in developing a greener operational strategy.
Which Are the Top 10 Plastic Recycling Companies in London?
1. Ecogen Recycling – “Sustainability at Scale”
Ecogen Recycling is a leading name in plastic recycling across London and the UK. Known for its state-of-the-art facilities and eco-forward processes, the company handles vast volumes of plastic waste daily. Ecogen serves both commercial and industrial clients, collecting and processing various grades of plastic including LDPE, HDPE, PET, and PP.
Their focus on sustainable practices ensures materials are repurposed and re-entered into the production cycle, supporting circular economy goals. Their London-based operations include modern processing plants with strict quality control and compliance with UK environmental legislation. Partnering with Ecogen means working with a company that prioritises efficiency, traceability, and long-term sustainability.
Area of Expertise
Large-scale industrial and commercial plastic recycling solutions.
Ideal For
Businesses looking for volume handling with full traceability.
- Website: www.ecogenrecycling.co.uk
- Phone: 01962 732 296
- Address: Stoke Charity Rd, Kings Worthy, Winchester SO21 2RP, UK
- Email: Stoke Charity Road, Kings Worthy, Winchester, Hampshire, SO21 2RP
Review: ★★★★☆
“A professional service with real-time data reporting ideal for compliance-heavy industries.”
2. Powerday – “London’s Waste Solution Specialist”
Powerday offers a comprehensive plastic recycling service as part of its broader waste management solutions. Operating multiple materials recovery facilities (MRFs) across London, Powerday is uniquely positioned to handle domestic, commercial, and construction plastic waste efficiently.
The company places a strong emphasis on sustainability, ensuring plastics are diverted from landfill and redirected into reusable materials. Powerday has partnerships with several local councils and offers bespoke services tailored to individual client needs. With 24/7 operations, their flexibility and reliability have made them a go-to provider for time-sensitive recycling solutions.
Focus Field
Integrated waste recovery with circular plastic solutions.
Best Suited For
Construction companies and local councils seeking high-capacity recycling.
- Website: www.powerday.co.uk
- Phone: 020 8960 4646
- Address: Crossan House, Old Oak Sidings, London, NW10 6RJ
- Email: info@powerday.co.uk
Review: ★★★★☆
“Always responsive and dependable they keep our project sites clean and compliant.”
3. Jayplas – “Leaders in Closed-Loop Recycling”
Jayplas (J&A Young Group) is one of the UK’s largest plastic recyclers and operates a closed-loop system that transforms waste plastic into new products. With multiple sites across the country, including operations in London, Jayplas processes post-consumer and post-industrial plastics.
Their advanced sorting, washing, and pelletising technologies ensure a high recovery rate and top-tier quality of recycled polymers. Jayplas supplies recycled materials back into manufacturing, closing the loop on the plastic life cycle. Their deep expertise in plastics makes them a key player for manufacturers and retailers aiming for sustainable production.
Core Competency
Closed-loop recycling and polymer reprocessing.
Most Suitable For
Retailers and manufacturers needing high-quality recycled plastic inputs.
- Website: www.jayplas.com
- Phone: 01530 513300
- Address: Unit 9 Palm St, New Basford, Nottingham NG7 7HU, UK
- Email: enquiries@jayplas.co.uk
Review: ★★★★★
“Top-quality reprocessing and exceptional transparency a real industry leader.”
4. Solway Recycling – “Innovators in Recycled Plastic Products”
Solway Recycling specialises in collecting and processing agricultural and hard-to-recycle plastics and transforming them into practical products such as fencing, shelters, and bins. While based in Scotland, Solway extends services to London-based clients seeking ethical recycling solutions.
Their approach to recycling is innovative they don’t just process plastic waste, they repurpose it. Solway is ideal for organisations looking for low-waste alternatives and sustainable product sourcing. Their recycling facility adheres to stringent environmental controls, and their reputation is built on both product quality and environmental integrity.
Recycling Strength
Recycled plastic product creation from farm and hard plastic waste.
Ideal Client
Eco-conscious customers and farms looking for sustainable reuse options.
- Website: www.solwayrecycling.co.uk
- Phone: 01387 730666
- Address: Rigghead Farm Shawhead, Dumfries DG2 9SH, UK
- Email: sales@solwayrecycling.co.uk
Review: ★★★★☆
“Their recycled plastic products are sturdy, innovative, and a great green alternative.”
5. Vanden Recycling – “Global Reach, Local Service”
Vanden is a global plastic recycling company with dedicated services across the UK, including London. They provide tailored plastic recycling solutions for manufacturers, converters, and waste handlers.
Known for their high-quality bale processing and resin regrinds, Vanden guarantees traceable, accountable, and sustainable recycling. Their London operations are particularly strong in handling commercial plastic scrap and providing market-driven pricing for materials. Vanden is a go-to for businesses seeking transparency, recycling expertise, and an international logistics network.
Expertise Area
Resin recovery and plastic regrind services for commercial clients.
Target Sector
Plastic processors and suppliers needing quality-controlled feedstock.
- Website: www.vandenrecycling.com
- Phone: +44(0) 2892668009
- Address: 2nd Floor, Lisburn Square House, 10 Haslems Lane, Lisburn BT28 1TW
- Email: uk@vandenrecycling.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“Efficient service with great technical support a partner in every sense.”
6. RPCS Ltd – “Plastic Recycling with Integrity”
RPCS Ltd is an independent plastic recycling company with a reputation for responsible handling of post-industrial plastic waste. Serving clients across London and the South East, they focus on collection, grading, and repurposing plastic materials with full environmental compliance.
RPCS offers custom recycling plans for businesses generating large volumes of consistent plastic types such as HDPE, PP, and LDPE. Their commitment to reducing carbon footprints and landfill diversion makes them an ideal partner for companies looking to hit sustainability targets.
Key Service
Responsible handling and processing of post-industrial plastics.
Preferred Use
Warehouses and logistics businesses with uniform plastic waste.
- Website: www.rpcsltd.co.uk
- Phone: 01702 548950
- Address:Curridge Farm & Business Park,Long Lane, Curridge, Newbury RG18 9AA, UK
- Email: info@rpcsltd.co.uk
Review: ★★★★☆
“A dependable service with strong green values and great follow-up.”
7. Biffa – “Recycling Made Scalable”
Biffa is a household name in UK waste management, offering end-to-end plastic recycling services. With extensive infrastructure and partnerships with councils and corporations, Biffa’s recycling operation includes sorting, washing, and pelletising plastic materials.
Their focus on scalability allows them to serve thousands of clients in and around London. From everyday domestic plastics to industrial-grade materials, Biffa’s recycling model supports national sustainability goals and offers data-backed compliance reporting.
Primary Focus
Full-cycle recycling for diverse waste streams.
Best Choice For
Enterprises and councils managing large-scale plastic volumes.
- Website: www.biffa.co.uk
- Phone: 0800 601 601
- Address: 45 Pensbury St, Nine Elms, London SW8 4TR, UK
- Email: customer.services@biffa.co.uk
Review: ★★★★☆
“Reliable, nationwide support with a strong London footprint well-suited for complex operations.”
8. Plastic Expert – “Eco-Conscious Recycling for the Modern World”
Plastic Expert provides tailored plastic recycling services in London for both businesses and public organisations. Their strong commitment to sustainability and education sets them apart.
Plastic Expert offers collection, shredding, and baling of plastics including LDPE, HDPE, PVC, and more. With a team focused on reducing plastic pollution at the source, they also help clients develop waste reduction strategies. Their website is packed with educational resources, making them a great partner for companies aiming to build a sustainable culture.
Special Focus
Educational approach to responsible plastic management.
Most Effective For
Businesses new to recycling seeking guidance and scalable options.
- Website: www.plasticexpert.co.uk
- Phone: 0845 366 9306
- Address:Victory House, Business Park, 400 Pavilion Dr, Northampton NN4 7PA, UK
- Email: expert@plasticexpert.co.uk
Review: ★★★★★
“A brilliant team helped us create a full recycling strategy from scratch.”
9. Viridor – “Pioneering Plastic Recovery Across the UK”
Viridor is a major player in the UK recycling industry with advanced facilities dedicated to polymer recovery. Their plastic recycling service includes mechanical and chemical processes, giving them the ability to handle both traditional and complex materials.
In London, Viridor partners with local councils, businesses, and infrastructure projects to divert waste from landfill and back into the supply chain. Their cutting-edge technology, including AI-based sorting, places them among the most advanced recyclers in Europe.
Core Strength
High-tech sorting and chemical recycling integration.
Best Matched For
Councils and corporates looking for sustainable infrastructure partners.
- Website: www.viridor.co.uk
- Phone: +44 (0) 1823 721400
- Address: Kingston upon Thames KT1 3GZ, UK
Review: ★★★★☆
“State-of-the-art facilities and a knowledgeable team future-proof recycling.”
10. Plastic Energy – “Transforming Plastic Into New Resources”
Plastic Energy stands at the forefront of advanced recycling by converting end-of-life plastic waste into new energy and materials. Their London operations are part of a broader global strategy using patented chemical recycling technology.
Unlike traditional mechanical methods, Plastic Energy’s process turns plastic waste into TACOIL™, a valuable feedstock for producing virgin-quality plastic. Their work supports a true circular economy, helping brands and governments meet ambitious sustainability goals.
Leading Advantage
Chemical recycling that regenerates plastic into new resources.
Ideal Audience
Brands, governments, and innovators pushing circular economy solutions.
- Website: www.plasticenergy.com
- Phone: +44 (0)20 7233 7770
- Address: 65 Carter Ln, London EC4V 5DY, UK
- Email: info@plasticenergy.com
Review: ★★★★★
“Groundbreaking tech with real-world impact the future of plastic recycling.”
What Is the Cost of Plastic Recycling Services in London?
Pricing can vary depending on whether the service is residential, commercial, or industrial. Some companies offer monthly plans, while others provide on-demand quotes based on volume and frequency of collection. Below is a table summarising cost expectations:
| Company | Client Type | Estimated Monthly Cost | Additional Notes |
| First Mile | Small to Medium Business | £35 – £100 | Flexible collection schedules and packages |
| Bywaters | Large Commercial | Custom Pricing | Tailored contracts based on volume |
| Paper Round | Offices & SMEs | £25 – £80 | Ideal for businesses in central London |
| Clearabee | On-Demand (All types) | £60 – £200+ | Cost based on load size and location |
| Veolia | Council/Commercial | Varies by borough | Often included in council partnerships |
These prices are general estimates. For precise quotes, it’s best to contact each company directly.
How Do London’s Recycling Companies Support Sustainability Goals?
Many of London’s recycling companies actively contribute to the city’s environmental targets. Their operations help reduce landfill dependency and encourage the circular reuse of plastics. Initiatives include carbon tracking, the use of electric or low-emission vehicles, and partnerships with environmental agencies.
Companies such as Recorra and Bywaters lead the way in offering zero-waste solutions, while Veolia works directly with local authorities to implement city-wide sustainable waste strategies. Through these collective efforts, these companies not only support recycling but actively shape London’s green future.
How Can Homes and Businesses Get Started with Plastic Recycling in London?
Starting with plastic recycling is straightforward. Most companies allow clients to schedule pickups online or by phone. Businesses may need to undergo an initial audit to assess their recycling needs, while residential customers typically select a collection plan and receive bins or bags to sort their waste.
Proper sorting is key separating different types of plastic ensures better recycling outcomes. Customers are usually provided with clear guidelines or customer support to help them through the process. Over time, these habits become routine and contribute significantly to reducing plastic waste across the capital.
Conclusion
The importance of plastic recycling in London cannot be overstated. With reliable companies offering a wide range of services for all types of clients, there’s no reason for plastic waste to end up in landfill or pollute the environment. The companies featured in this guide offer trusted, professional, and environmentally responsible options for anyone looking to do their part.
Choosing the right plastic recycling partner helps individuals and organisations meet their green goals, remain compliant with environmental laws, and support the city’s mission to be one of the world’s most sustainable urban centres.
FAQs About Plastic Recycling in London
What types of plastic can I recycle in London?
Most providers accept commonly used plastics such as PET (e.g. drink bottles), HDPE (e.g. detergent containers), and LDPE (e.g. carrier bags), but specific services may vary.
Do recycling companies offer free collection services?
Free services are typically offered by local councils. Private recycling companies usually charge a fee, although some provide discounted rates for long-term customers.
How can I check if a recycling company is certified?
Look for waste carrier licences issued by the Environment Agency, as well as ISO certifications. Most reputable companies display these on their websites.
Is plastic recycling available across all boroughs in London?
Yes, although the availability and level of service can differ. Some boroughs have partnerships with providers like Veolia, offering enhanced services.
What happens to plastic after it is collected?
The plastic is sorted, cleaned, shredded, and processed into raw material. This material is then reused in manufacturing new products, reducing demand for virgin plastic.
Are plastic recycling services suitable for small businesses?
Absolutely. Many companies offer affordable and scalable plans for SMEs, often including compliance reporting and sustainability insights.
How can I reduce plastic waste in addition to recycling?
Consider switching to reusable items, choosing products with less packaging, and educating others in your household or business about waste reduction.