Plastic waste, particularly soft plastics like grocery bags and bubble wrap, poses a significant environmental challenge in the UK. These materials cannot be processed in standard recycling facilities, which are often ill-equipped to handle them. Instead, they require specialized plants that are currently lacking in sufficient numbers across the country. According to consumer group Which?, much of the soft plastic that is recycled ends up being downcycled into lower-quality products, such as bin bags or plastic garden furniture, rather than being transformed into new plastic bottles. Many councils do not offer kerbside recycling for soft plastics, so it is advised to collect these materials and take them to designated collection points at large supermarkets. Contamination from non-recyclable items, including soft plastics, can cause significant issues in recycling processes, damaging equipment and halting operations. Recent statistics indicate that 81% of individuals are placing non-recyclable items in their recycling bins, highlighting the need for better awareness and practices regarding plastic disposal.