After years working in large institutions and going to conferences, I can’t help but enjoy the little feeling of authority that lanyards give. A recent piece in the Financial Times also made me stop and think about how many of these we get through and how cheaper imports are squeezing UK makers who are trying to offer better materials and reuse options.
Why it’s worth rethinking lanyards
Most standard lanyards are polyester with a metal or plastic clip. That mix is awkward for ordinary recycling, and unless an event plans collection from the start, reuse rates stay low. Design guidance for textiles also points out that hard fittings on fabric make recycling more complex, which fits the lanyard story.
There are better choices now. Recycled PET (rPET) reuses plastic bottles. Some suppliers offer natural fibres such as organic cotton or bamboo, and seed-paper lanyards for single-day events that can be planted afterwards. A few UK firms will even take lanyards back after use.
UK suppliers offering lower-impact options
If you are buying, ask for evidence of recycled content, where items are made and what happens at end of life.
Here are places to start.
- Identilam rPET options with post-event collection.
- Lanyards Online rPET, bamboo and seed-paper ranges.
- ID&C Recycled PET lanyards and guidance on materials.
- Lanyard.co.uk Recycled and bamboo ranges.
- The Wristband Company Recycled PET lanyards.
- Preseli Closed-loop lanyard recycling so you can return used polyester or rPET units for reprocessing in the UK.
What to do with old lanyards?
- Use a Zero Waste Box from TerraCycle. It accepts lanyards, name tags and clips, with pre-paid shipping. Helpful for offices and events that build up volume.
- Ask suppliers about take-back. Preseli and Identilam both describe schemes that collect and recycle used lanyards.
- Plan collection at events. Set up return points, brief staff, and agree the route for reuse or recycling before the doors open.
- Try local reuse. Plain, undamaged straps may be useful to community groups or schools for crafts or ID. Check locally.
Practical buying tips
- Prefer rPET over virgin polyester and ask for proof of recycled content.
- Use seed-paper for single-day events and plant afterwards.
- Include a take-back or closed-loop option in your purchase order.
- Build collection and reuse into the event plan so returns actually happen.
- Where suitable, switch to digital passes or on-site printed paper badges to cut single-use straps.
- Choose durable straps and replace clips rather than the whole lanyard where possible.
If you’d like a simple sustainability roadmap that makes sure you’ve thought of everything, Black Skies Blue can help you weave sustainability through everyday decisions, not just waste. From materials and suppliers to policies and training, the aim is a plan that fits the way you work.
For more information please contact Jayne Saywell, one of our Business Advisors to start your roadmap.
