J&B News & Updates

30.08.19

Recycling can be confusing for both UK businesses and householders. If you struggle with waste disposal methods and how to recycle items, with careful planning and the correct information, you can become organised, save money and have less of an impact on the environment.

It is estimated that the UK generated 41.1 million tonnes of commercial and industrial (C&I) waste, according to Department for Environment Food & Rural Affairs and Wise Up To Waste stated that up to 70% of waste could be recycled or reused in some way.

Manufacturers need to do their part to improve their plastic waste output, however, we can all help to make sure that the UK’s recycling system is more efficient. Our waste management experts at J&B Recycling have put together a guide with some of the best and simplest tips for recycling at home and in your business.

While all local authorities have different materials they can and can’t recycle, depending on which MRF (material recycling facility) they drop their collected waste at; our guide shows what can be recycled so please check with your provider first before putting them in your own recycling bin. For householders local supermarkets and other recycling drop points such as bring sites may take what your council doesn’t. The same doesn’t apply for businesses however who must follow the appropriate Duty of Care legislation and make suitable arrangements with their waste management provider.

What is recyclable in mixed recyclables also known as DMR?

· Plastic food containers (separate mixed materials)

· Hard white plastic

· Clean Clingfilm

· Clean Tin Foil (aluminium)

· Beverage cartons (tetra packs)

· All types of cardboard may be recycled including toilet roll tubes.

· All plastics bottles can be recycled, and in most boroughs, you can recycle the tops and lids too.

· Newspapers, envelopes (without plastic windows), wrapping paper (without glitter or foil), birthday cards and phone books.

What similar items can’t be recycled in DMR?

· Black plastic

· Cardboard food packaging (with food contamination)

· Laminated plastic (crisp packets)

· Bread bags (supermarket may take them)

· Laminated paper

· Sweet wrappers

· Pill packets

· Wet wipes

Tips on recycling at home

· Flatten all types of large cardboard to make room for more recyclable items.

· Keep separate bags for recycling but remember to empty the bag into the bin and dispose of the carrier bag in the general waste.

· Do not ‘hide’ items within items, ie don’t put cardboard boxes full aluminium cans.

· If you’re having a party, get guests to use ashtrays rather than putting cigarettes in beer bottles.

· If having a barbeque, then save yourself the clear up job afterwards by putting out bags or buckets to collect empty glass and cans to tip straight into your recycling bin (pin a note asking them to be drained before being put into the recycling).

· Check on the date of the waste collection so you know what day to put them out.

· Look at your council’s website for information on recycling, it’s there for you to read.

· Talk to everyone in your household about where your recycling storage point is and what can be recycled.

· Look for arts and eco groups who collect materials that would otherwise go to waste, which can be used on projects. An example of this is Percy Middlesbrough.

Recycling in your business

· Recycling in your business can help to save money and most importantly, help the environment. Disposing of your waste in the right way is often cheaper than sending it to a landfill site.

· Squash bottles before you put them out for recycling, not only does this save space but it stops them from rolling off the sorting conveyor belts.

· Sort your waste into different bins by setting up a multi-storage bin in your kitchen so items can be sorted as they are disposed.

· Empty and rinse your recycling so you don’t risk contaminating other items, and you avoid bad smells in the home.

· Happier employees – there’s a good chance some of your employees want the ability to recycle at work.

· Improved image – having a recycling programme in place can strengthen your reputation with those consumers.

If you would like to make an enquiry or if you require further information please contact us.