Government Initiative to Streamline Recycling Practices: A Step Towards a Greener Future

Editors Choice

16 December 2023

Recycle Bins,Recycling

Plans to 'Make Recycling Easier' to Curb Landfill Waste

In the face of growing concerns about the contamination of recyclables due to ‘wishcycling,’ the government has announced plans to streamline the recycling process, aiming to simplify the sorting and collection of materials. As part of this initiative, councils will be urged to collect consistent materials from households, making recycling more accessible for everyone. At Recycle City, we align ourselves with these goals, actively contributing to the efficient separation and processing of waste to reduce our environmental footprint.

Our company, Recycle City, situated in Mitcham, London, is at the forefront of waste management solutions. With a dedicated approach to handling locally-generated, construction, excavation, and demolition waste, including services provided by our associate company, MOTION, who specialise in grab hire, skip hire, and the supply of aggregates. Our commitment to environmentally responsible practices is encapsulated in our tagline: ‘GREEN HORIZONS.’

Addressing 'Wishcycling'

Contrary to recent reports suggesting a reduction in items accepted in recycling bins, the government’s focus is on enhancing consistency across councils in England. The intention is to facilitate a more straightforward recycling process, reducing confusion for residents. It is crucial to dispel misconceptions that this means recycling less or putting fewer items into recycling bins. Instead, the emphasis is on educating the public about what should and should not be recycled.

Government Clarification

A government spokesperson has clarified that the objective is to make recycling more accessible and consistent across all councils. This standardisation aims to provide clarity on the materials accepted for recycling, ultimately minimising the amount of waste destined for landfills. Reading packaging labels is encouraged to ensure the correct items are recycled, supporting the growth of the recycling industry.

'Wishcycling' Challenges

While the government’s primary focus is not directly on ‘wishcycling,’ the issue remains a challenge during kerbside collections. For instance, including greasy pizza boxes in cardboard or paper recycling can contaminate entire batches during the recycling process. The mixture of oil and grease with the recycled materials hinders separation, leading to potential rejection of contaminated batches.

Items Not Suitable for Recycling

To further assist in the proper disposal of waste, it’s essential to be aware of items that should not be included in recycling bins. These include greasy food boxes, kitchen roll, disposable coffee cups, crisp packets, food pouches, mirrors, toothpaste tubes, polystyrene, light bulbs, plastic bags, and bio plastics.

Defra's Perspective

The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) has launched a public consultation in 2021 to improve recycling consistency in both households and businesses. Their aim is to simplify waste and recycling collections, preventing food waste from contaminating recyclable materials. The Local Government Association has urged for additional funding to help councils manage the expected changes resulting from these new rules.

Conclusion

At Recycle City, we stand in solidarity with the government’s efforts to enhance recycling practices across the nation. Our purpose is aligned with the separation of waste, ensuring proper categorisation for dispatch to recycling plants. Through our associate company MOTION, who provide grab hire, skip hire, and aggregate supply services, contributing to a more sustainable and eco-friendly future. As we move towards ‘GREEN HORIZONS,’ we invite individuals and businesses to join us in the collective endeavour to minimise waste, preserve resources, and build a greener tomorrow.