Can you recycle envelopes with bubble wrap?

Those mailers lined with bubble wrap are quite convenient to limit damage to your products, but are they recyclable?

This is another tricky scenario. By themselves, envelopes can be recycled in your single stream recycling bin. But the “bubble mailers” are a little different.

Can you recycle envelopes with bubble wrap?

No. But when you add the bubble wrap, the envelopes are NOT recyclable.

Try reusing the envelopes for the next time you mail someone a gift.

Here are a few ideas of what you can do with bubble wrap instead.

Photo: Dave Bloovman

Julie Hancher

Julie Hancher is the co-founder and Executive Director of Green Philly, an independent media organization making sustainability accessible, affordable and actionable. Since launching Green Philly in 2008, she has grown it from a passion project into a leading voice for local climate storytelling, pairing impactful journalism with community events and experiences. Julie is a frequent speaker on climate, media innovation and the future of local journalism, and is the creator of SustainPHL and EcoFair. Outside of Green Philly, you can find her hiking, biking, traveling, or exploring Philadelphia.