Where to recycle old trekking poles in the UK?
If you have a pair of worn‑out, bent, or broken trekking poles, do not throw them in your household recycling bin – they are too long and made of mixed materials. Instead, you have several responsible and practical options, from donating them for reuse to taking them to a specialist recycling centre. This guide covers the best ways to recycle or repurpose your old trekking poles in the UK.
Option 1: Charity Shops and Gear Exchanges
If your poles are still in usable condition, donating them is the most environmentally friendly option. It gives them a second life and supports a good cause.
1. Oxfam and British Heart Foundation
Many large charity shops, particularly those that sell clothing and household goods, will accept used trekking poles. However, not all branches have space for them, so it's best to call ahead.
- What to Do: Drop off your poles at your local shop. If they don't accept them, ask if they can send them to a larger store or a specialist warehouse.
2. Specialist Outdoor Gear Charity Shops
This is the best option for walking gear. Some shops specifically focus on second‑hand outdoor equipment.
- ReCyclery (Sheffield): A dedicated outdoor gear charity shop. They accept a wide range of equipment, including trekking poles, and sell them at affordable prices.
- Other Independent Shops: Check if there is a local outdoor gear exchange or a co‑op in your area. They often have a second‑hand section.
3. Scrap Metal Value
Poles are made of aluminium or carbon fibre. Aluminium in particular has a scrap value. You can take them to a scrap metal dealer, though the small amount of metal may only be worth a few pence. It is an option if you are already taking other scrap metal.
Option 2: Council Recycling Centres (Household Waste Recycling Centres)
This is the most straightforward option if the poles are beyond repair.
How It Works
- Find Your Local HWRC: Search for your local Household Waste Recycling Centre (often called a "tip" or "recycling centre").
- Separate the Materials: If possible, remove the rubber grips, foam handles, and plastic baskets. These go in general waste or plastic recycling.
- Recycle the Metal: The aluminium or carbon fibre shaft should be placed in the metal skip. Carbon fibre is not technically metal, but it is often accepted with metals at these centres.
- Check Your Centre: Some centres have a dedicated "small electricals" or "scrap metal" section. Check with the staff on arrival.
What to Avoid: Do not place poles in your household recycling bin—they are too long and will get caught in the sorting machinery.
Option 3: Manufacturer Take‑Back Schemes
Some outdoor brands are starting to offer recycling or take‑back schemes for their own products. This is the most sustainable option, as the materials are often processed specifically for recycling.
- Leki: Contact Leki's UK distributor (Pele Sports) to ask if they offer a recycling or take‑back service for old poles.
- Black Diamond: Check with Cotswold Outdoor or the official Black Diamond UK distributor. They may have information on product recycling.
- Patagonia: While Patagonia doesn't make poles, they have a general repair and recycling program for their own clothing and gear. They may accept poles in some circumstances.
Option 4: Repurpose and Upcycle
If you are handy, an old trekking pole can have a second life in your garden or home.
- Plant Supports: Use the poles as sturdy stakes for climbing plants, tomatoes, or beans.
- Tent Poles: If you have a broken pole, a section can be used as a spare tent pole for a tarp or a porch.
- DIY Projects: Trekking poles can be used as handles for tools, as supports for bird feeders, or as material for model‑making.
The Problem with Carbon Fibre
Carbon fibre poles are particularly difficult to recycle. The material is a composite of carbon fibres and resin, which cannot be easily separated. Many recycling centres will not accept them, and they may end up in general waste.
- The Reality: If you have a broken carbon fibre pole, the most sustainable option is to repurpose it or see if the manufacturer can recycle it. A charity shop is unlikely to accept a broken carbon pole.
- What to Do: Check with your local HWRC to see if they have a specific process for carbon fibre composites.
A Quick Comparison Table
| Option | Best For | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Charity Shops | Usable, functional poles | Widespread |
| ReCyclery (Sheffield) | Specialist outdoor gear | Only in Sheffield |
| HWRC (Metal Skip) | Unusable, broken poles | Nationwide |
| Manufacturer Take‑Back | Premium brands (Leki, BD) | Limited |
| Repurpose (Garden) | DIY projects | Anywhere |
Preparation Checklist
Before you recycle your poles, do this:
- □ Remove the baskets: They are plastic and can be recycled separately.
- □ Remove the grips: Foam, rubber, and cork grips go in general waste.
- □ Remove the straps: They can be kept as spares or recycled with textiles.
- □ Separate the sections: If possible, collapse the poles for transport.
The "Don't" List
- Don't put them in your household recycling bin. They are too long and will cause problems.
- Don't leave them in a lay‑by or on the hill. That's fly‑tipping.
- Don't burn them. Carbon fibre releases toxic fumes when burned.
Final Verdict
Recycling old trekking poles in the UK is a straightforward process if you know where to look. The most accessible option is to take them to your local Household Waste Recycling Centre and place them in the metal skip. If your poles are still functional, donating them to a charity shop—especially a specialist outdoor gear shop like ReCyclery—is the most sustainable choice. By taking a few minutes to separate the materials and choose the right option, you can ensure your old poles don't end up in a landfill.
