Separating PMD only helps if the collected material can be turned into something new. An explanation published by Circulus on July 10, 2026 shows what happens after plastic packaging, metal packaging, and drink cartons leave the kerb.
The collected PMD is sorted by material before recycling:
- Plastic packaging is separated by plastic type and processed into material for products such as packaging, bottles, and crates.
- Metal packaging is removed with magnets, while aluminium is separated using an electrical sorting technique. The metal can then be melted down for products such as cans, bicycle frames, and building materials.
- Drink cartons are separated into cardboard, plastic, and aluminium layers. Paper fibres can become new paper or cardboard, while the remaining layers are processed into other raw materials.
Why the wrong waste matters
Food residue and objects that do not belong with PMD make sorting and recycling harder. A heavily contaminated load can even be rejected and burned. Packaging placed directly in residual waste usually loses its opportunity to be recycled as well.
You do not need to memorise the whole processing chain while standing beside the bin. Before adding something to PMD, ask three questions:
- Is it packaging made from plastic or metal, or is it a drink carton?
- Did it come from the kitchen or bathroom?
- Is it empty?
If all three answers are yes, it belongs with PMD under Circulus's guidance. Hard-plastic products such as toys and cutting boards are not packaging and should go to an appropriate recycling point instead.
Your waste calendar tells you when PMD is collected. Separating it carefully helps ensure that the material can still be recycled after collection day.