nonrecyclability

Nonrecyclability refers to the property of materials or products that cannot be recycled within established waste-management systems. It is context-dependent and can vary by region, available technology, collection practices, and economic conditions.

Causes include material properties and design choices that hinder recovery. Multilayer or composite materials, such as laminated packaging that combines plastic and metal, can be difficult to separate. Polymers that degrade during recycling, thermosetting plastics, coatings or adhesives that prevent material separation, and contamination with food, chemicals, or metals all reduce recyclability. Practical limits also arise from insufficient sorting infrastructure, low market value for recycled material, or high processing costs.

Examples commonly cited as nonrecyclable within many systems include certain flexible packaging items like multi-layer sachets or pouches, laminated films, and some complex electronics or automotive components with mixed materials. Other plastics with additives or coatings, and specialized construction materials, may also be difficult to reclaim in practice. It is important to note that recyclability can change with advances in technology and policy.

Implications and measurement: nonrecyclable materials typically end up in landfills or are diverted to energy recovery facilities. Recyclability is a design and systems issue rather than an intrinsic property of a material. Assessments use indicators such as the recyclability rate and compatibility with existing recycling streams.

Mitigation and policy: improving recyclability involves designing for mono-materiality, removable or separable coatings, and simpler material streams; expanding sorting and recycling technologies; and policy measures like labeling, standards, and extended producer responsibility. Chemical recycling may broaden options for some previously nonrecyclable streams.