As one of the fastest growing sports in America, pickleball has gained immense popularity. However, pickleball players often struggle with what to do with old or damaged balls. Instead of simply throwing these balls away, many players try to recycle them.
To recycle pickleballs, first identify the type of plastic the ball is made of. You can find this information on the packaging or by visiting the manufacturer’s website. Pickleballs are typically made from LDPE (#4 plastic), which is easy to recycle.
Use the Earth911 Recycling Locator to enter your zip code and search for “#4 hard plastic” to find a nearby recycling facility that accepts this type of plastic. However, curbside collection programs and recycling centers that accept these hard plastics may not accept pickleballs because they are small and can clog sorters. Call before putting them in your trash or dropping them off.
Request the court to install recycling boxes
P3 Pickleball The company has introduced collection boxes that can be used at local courts. When the boxes are full, they are sent back to the company for recycling. Other organizations and pickleball manufacturers are also working to create collection programs. These efforts are still in their early stages, but players can express interest in participating. One such project is Service PickleballCourt administrators can request recycling bins with pre-paid labels for return shipping when full. Re-pickle projectis organizing a pickleball recycling network, but has not yet started collecting balls.
Pickleball ProjectA recently formed non-profit organization collects and recycles pickleballs at clubs across New England. If you are interested in placing collection bins at your pickleball courts, Contact the organization For details.
If recycling isn’t available, try repurposing old pickleballs into parking guides for your garage or other creative projects. Pickleball Central and Jennifer’s Pickleball Blog For craft ideas.
As the sport grows, players need to be mindful about recycling and choose pickleballs that can be recycled when they break or wear out. Ask courts to provide collection bins, and emphasize that the bins must be partnered with a trusted recycler that will dispose of the balls responsibly. If you take the time to put your balls in the bins, make sure the court is honoring its recycling commitments.
Contribute to the sustainable development of sports
With a little research and effort, players can take steps to dispose of their used pickleballs in a more sustainable way, and do all they can to extend the life of their pickleballs by using them for practice and drills, even after they’re no longer capable of bouncing in competition.
So, get on the court and practice your dink shot. Dominate the court and encourage your friends to choose recyclable equipment.
Editor’s note: This article was originally published on September 1, 2023 and updated in September 2024. Have a question about how to recycle a specific product or material type? Let us know and we’ll do the research and share our findings with the world. Support our worktoo!
