Recycling is important to keep materials in the loop, but there is work to be done to help make this simpler and more effective.
Confusion over labelling regarding recyclability, the large number of plastic types and the difficulty in separating them and a system which is not harmonised leads to contamination.
1. Rules vary in different councils!
Do you want to find out what you can put in your recycling at home? Recycle Now takes your postcode and tells you what items your Local Council accepts. Check out the site now!
2. Beware of the Mobius Loop
Don’t be fooled, this does not mean it can be recycled or has been recycled. Moves are afoot to simplify the messaging - this cannot come soon enough! You need to find out from your local collection system.
3. Wash it and Squash it!
This is good advice from industry experts. Why? It prevents food residue contamination spreading onto other materials such as paper as they all go through the separation system. Contamination can lead to rejection of recyclates.