Can I recycle bicycles?
Yes. You can recycle the main parts of your old bike at your nearest recycling centre.
Bicycles
Recycle your cycle!
The metal parts of a bike include the frame, wheels and chain. The other parts are usually rubber or plastic.
How should I recycle my bicycle?
If your bike is really beyond repair, you can recycle the metal parts. Many local recycling centres have a mixed metals recycling facility.
- You will need to provide your own transport. Contact the recycling centre to find out the opening hours, which can vary for cars and vans.
- If you are taking your bike in a van, check with the recycling centre whether you need any permission or ID to do so.
- Before taking your bicycle to the recycling centre, remove any rubber or plastic parts such as tyres, inner tubes, saddles, brakes, plastic light or lock fittings and bells.
What else can I do with my bicycle?
Even if your bike is in bad condition, it could still be re-used. The following organisations take old bikes and refurbish them for charity or community projects:
Sell it!
Try advertising in a local paper or noticeboard. There are also many online marketplaces where you could find a buyer
Re-use your bicycle
- Bike parts – such as handlebars, chains and seats – can be useful materials for artists and designers. Try advertising locally – what may be scrap to you could provide the finishing touches to someone else’s masterpiece.
- Inner tubes can also have other uses - use them for hanging pictures and decorations from walls or ceilings
