TerraCycle Recycling Program FAQs

How is waste processed through the TerraCycle Zero Waste Box™ platform?

TerraCycle aggregates contents from the Zero Waste Boxes and allows a quarantine period for any PPE received. Waste is sorted into different streams by material type and then shredded by TerraCycle recycling partners. The contents are processed into pellet or powder form, depending on the intended end use. The final products (pellets or powders) are fed into TerraCycle partner supply chains to be turned into new products such as pallets, benches, rubberized flooring, or plastic components of other consumer products.

What percentage of content collected in TerraCycle Zero Waste Boxes is recycled?

100% of the compliant material received by TerraCycle is recycled. They do not send anything to the landfill. Read how each type of waste is recycled here.

What types of products are made from the recycled materials?

TerraCycle makes a range of pellets and powders that are then fed into TerraCycle partner supply chains to create new products. The end product depends on the contents of your Zero Waste Box. Gloves are most frequently made into rubberized mats or rubberized flooring. Masks, hair nets, and 3D printing materials are made into rigid plastic end products such as plastic lumber, shipping pallets, or plastic consumer products. Gum has been most frequently used to create gum containers, but can be recycled into similar products as gloves.

Can I buy a bench or table made from recycled materials that we send to TerraCycle?

TerraCycle does use a portion of its recycled materials to create benches and picnic tables. If you would like to inquire about purchasing a bench or table for your site, notify your Fisher Scientific representative. They will work with TerraCycle to provide you with product information.

Can the boxes be picked up by UPS?

Yes, each box will have a pre-affixed return shipping label on the rear of the box. Just seal the lid with packing tape to prepare for shipping and then UPS will pick up the box as they would any other UPS package.

Is there a minimum order quantity?

There is no minimum order quantity.

How do you classify medical waste?

The recycling boxes cannot accept medical waste. This includes material contaminated with blood or bodily fluids that originate from healthcare facilities, hospitals, physicians' offices, dental offices, blood banks, or veterinary clinics. Anything that would fall under federal guidelines or "red bag waste" should not be included in the Zero Waste Boxes. Please comply with your site’s environmental, health, and safety (EHS) guidelines if you are unsure whether your site’s waste can be recycled.

How much can each box hold?

Please see product descriptions for estimated box capacities. These are rough estimates that vary depending on contents and how densely the boxes are filled.

How do you use a Zero Waste Box?

With your order, you will receive a flat TerraCycle Zero Waste Box recycling system, which includes a flat box with a pre-attached UPS shipping label and a plastic liner. Fold the box into its proper shape and simply place it in a convenient indoor area. Once the box is full, either tie off or tape the liner closed and seal the box. The box is then ready to be picked up by UPS. For PPE boxes, please allow the box to sit for 72 hours before shipping.