How to Recycle Mylar

Mylar balloons can only be recycled at three locations in the U.S.

Mylar is the plastic used to make shiny balloons for parties. It consists of metalized plastic and nylon but cannot be thrown to the curb with other recyclables such as aluminum, plastic and paper. Unfortunately, there are only three recycling plants in the U.S. that will accept mylar. They are located in Oakland, San Fransisco and San Jose, Calif.

Instructions

1. Cut the deflated mylar balloons into strips. Place them in a recycling bin. Call the Super Link Plastic recycling company in Oakland at [phone] between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday to schedule a pickup.

2. Cut your deflated mylar balloons into strips. Place them in a recycling bin. Call Scroungers' Center for Reusable Art Parts (SCRAP) in San Fransisco at [phone] between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday to arrange a pickup or dropoff.

3. Cut your deflated mylar balloons into strips. Cut your deflated mylar balloons into strips. Call the Resource Area for Teachers in San Jose at [phone] between 9:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday, or between 9:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Saturdays.

Tips & Warnings

• Mylar balloons can be refilled with helium and used again.

References

• Stop Waste: Recycling Wizard

Resources

• Super Link USA: Super Link Plastic
• SCRAP-SF: Scrounger's Center for Reusable Art Parts
• RAFT: Resource Area for Teachers