New Simpler Recycling legislation is coming April 2025.
Click here to find out more.

What happens to the pods?

We are working with Podback, the not-for-profit pod recycling service created by the leading names in coffee pod systems.  Through Podback, aluminium and plastic pods are recycled here in the UK. 

The pods are shredded to remove the coffee, and aluminium and plastic are used in the manufacture of new items such as drink cans, car parts and building products. The coffee is transformed into renewable energy and soil improver for agriculture. 

How to recycle

  • There’s no need to empty your pods, but please drain them of any remaining liquid before putting them in your recycling box.

  • Aluminium and plastic pods can be collected mixed, they will be sorted at the recycling plant.

Fill in the form to book a coffee pod collection for £9.99

How it works

 

  1. Fill an old cardboard box (see spec below) with used coffee pods, and seal it up.
  2. Place an order online (above) for £9.99 per collection
  3. You'll receive an email with your order number and a link to book your collection
  4. Book your collection using your order number from any UK address and on a day to suit you.
  5. Your regular postie will collect your parcel 
  6. Used coffee pods are returned to First Mile's Return & Recycle Facility to be turned back into new products 

Specifications

 

Use any old box, as long as it is sturdy and does not exceed the dimensions shown here. If you are worried the pods will make the box damp pop them in an old plastic bag. 

Box specifications:

Maximum size = 61 x 46 x 46 cm 

Maximum weight = 10kg

 

Need Regular Collections for Coffee Cups?

 

We also offer pay-as-you-go sack collections for coffee cups, which are collected curbside at your chosen collection time from your business. 

Click here to learn more about our Coffee Cups Recycling Stream.

Set up now