The Writing Instruments Free Recycling Programme

Accepted waste: all brands of writing instruments, whether in plastic or metal - pen, felt tip, highlighter, marker, correction fluid pot or tape, mechanical pencil and eraser pen (cap included). 

Waste that is NOT accepted: wooden pencils, glue sticks, erasers, rulers, chalk sticks or cutting objects. 

Check the full list and download the accepted waste poster here.

Please note that the programme is currently full so you cannot set up your own drop-off point.

If you’re acting on behalf of a school or university and would like to take part in this programme, we encourage you to join the waitlist.

In the meantime, please drop off the accepted waste at an existing drop-off location.

Click here to learn more about public drop-off locations.

There are no direct costs to you for running a public drop-off point. Many collectors spend nothing other than their time.

You may choose to purchase specific boxes or bins for your drop-off location, but you can also request a free branded one by completing the Collection Box Request Form or just use extra boxes you have at home.

You choose which TerraCycle free recycling programmes your drop-off point will participate in. Collectors can drop off only the waste accepted in those TerraCycle programmes.

Yes, The Writing Instruments Free Recycling Programme allows public drop-off locations to receive a branded collection box. Please note this box is only to collect waste into. We will ask you to use another cardboard box for sending your waste to us and to reuse the branded box for collecting new waste.

To receive a collection box for your location, please complete the Collection Box Request Form. The box will be dispatched within 10 working days providing your application is successful.

Public spaces that have good traffic flow and are easily accessible are excellent drop-off points. Stores, community centers, places of worship, and libraries are great options in general.

Please note that you cannot set up your own drop-off point for now as there are currently no more spaces available.