Using recycled promotional products sends a strong message that your brand is committed to environmental responsibility. It shows your audience that you're not just talking about sustainability—you’re taking action. Whether you’ve set internal ESG targets, are a certified B Corp, or simply want to be a more conscious brand, recycled items help align your marketing efforts with those values. They also appeal to a growing number of consumers who prefer to support brands that prioritise people and planet over waste and excess. Even small changes, like switching to recycled notebooks or bags, can reinforce your purpose and differentiate your brand in the marketplace.

The key is to tell the story behind the product. Don’t assume people will notice it's recycled—use custom packaging, tags, or even printed inserts to explain what the product is made from and why that matters. For example:
• “This notebook cover is made from recycled ocean-bound plastic.”
• “Each tote bag diverts the equivalent of three plastic bottles from landfill.”
Adding messaging like this creates a moment of connection and transparency. Consider including QR codes that link to a landing page about your sustainability journey, or use campaign hashtags to spark conversations. The more you connect the product to your broader values, the more memorable and meaningful it becomes.

Recycled promotional products are made from a wide range of post-consumer and post-industrial materials, including:
• Recycled PET (rPET): Often made from used water and soda bottles, turned into fabric for bags, lanyards, and apparel.
• Recycled paper/cardboard: Used for notebooks, packaging, and writing pads.
• Recycled cotton or textiles: Re-spun fabric offcuts or used garments used in tote bags, tees, and caps.
• Recycled ocean plastic: Collected from coastlines or marine environments and repurposed into premium products like pens, sunglasses, or tech gear.
• Recycled metals: Used in items like reusable straws, drinkware, or tools.
Sourcing is increasingly transparent, and many products come with documentation or certification (like GRS – Global Recycled Standard) to verify their recycled content and ethical production process.

The recycled products market has grown well beyond simple paper goods. Today, brands can choose from a wide variety of creative, functional, and even tech-savvy recycled products, such as:
• Wireless chargers made from recycled wheat straw or cork
• Pens or styluses made from recycled ocean plastic or car parts
• Apparel and bags made from recycled PET bottles
• Notebooks with covers made from stone paper or coffee grounds
• Laptop sleeves and cooler bags made from upcycled billboard vinyl
These items not only reduce waste but also offer a unique talking point—making them perfect for events, new client gifts, or CSR campaigns. Innovation is moving fast, and choosing standout products reflects positively on your brand’s forward-thinking approach.

Yes—and this is one of the most powerful ways to add value to a recycled product. Many suppliers now offer details on the origin of the materials used (e.g., "Made from 100% recycled PET bottles collected from European waste streams" or "Crafted from cotton offcuts from textile factories"). Some even include QR codes on tags or packaging that tell the backstory of the product—from collection to creation. This helps your brand move beyond just handing out a product—it creates an experience and a conversation. Telling the story makes the recycled aspect tangible, credible, and memorable, which increases engagement and reflects well on your brand’s transparency.