RE:MINED™ Powers the Next Generation of Wheelie Bins

In South Africa, effective waste management depends on the humble yet hard-working Wheelie bin. Whether in domestic, commercial, or public sector environments, Wheelie bins serve as the frontline equipment for moving waste from point A to B - often across rugged terrain, in fluctuating temperatures, and under demanding operational conditions.

To meet these challenges, Wheelie bins must be tough, durable, and built to last - year after year.

“RE:MINED™ provided the consistency and quality we needed to confidently reduce our reliance on virgin materials while improving productivity.”

– Local Wheelie Bin Manufacturer

Client Background

Traditionally, Wheelie bins have been manufactured using virgin HDPE or virgin polypropylene, materials known for their high impact resistance and reliable processing characteristics. However, the industry has long struggled to source recycled alternatives that meet the same rigorous performance standards -particularly when it comes to consistency, flow properties, and toughness.

These bins are supplied to both the domestic retail sector and to municipal and private waste management firms. They operate in high-intensity, high-frequency environments - meaning any compromise in material quality can lead to failures in the field or inefficiencies in production.

The Challenge

As bespoke virgin polymer grades become increasingly scarce and consumers demand more sustainable solutions, manufacturers are under pressure to incorporate recycled content - without compromising the performance of their bins.

However, Wheelie bin moulds are typically designed for virgin material. The complex flow paths, thin wall sections, and square geometries with sharp corners demand a material that:

• Flows smoothly and consistently

• Withstands frequent and high-impact handling

• Resists warping and stress during production

The inconsistent quality of traditional recycled materials on the market simply hasn't made the cut, until now.

Our Solution: RE:MINED™ for Wheelie Bins

Reproplast’s RE:MINED™ Polymers are engineered to meet, and exceed, the unique demands of Wheelie bin manufacturing. Through rigorous purification and specification control, RE:MINED™ offers:

• Consistent flowability for long mould paths and thin walls

• Exceptional impact resistance for everyday use

• Dimensional stability for precision moulding

• Reliable colour and appearance to meet aesthetic expectations

By substituting virgin polymers and replacing low-grade recyclates, RE:MINED™ enabled a seamless transition for clients needing a high-performance, sustainable alternative.

The Results

The collaboration yielded impressive outcomes:

The shift to RE:MINED™ delivered immediate and measurable benefits:

• Operational Performance: Manufacturers reported improved consistency, fewer short shots, and reduced mould flashing, all contributing to higher productivity and lower downtime.

• Equipment Longevity: The reduction in irregular material behaviour helped prevent mould damage and reduced maintenance costs.

• Sustainability Gains: Using 100% post-consumer recycled content, RE:MINED™ significantly reduced virgin plastic consumption and environmental impact.

• Product Quality: Finished bins matched, and in some cases exceeded, the performance of virgin-based alternatives, standing up to South Africa’s demanding waste management conditions.

With RE:MINED™, Reproplast is reshaping industrial markets by unlocking new value from waste while elevating performance for converters and end-users alike. Our entry into the Wheelie bin market has not only proven that recycled materials can meet the challenge, but that they can do so with distinction.