Sefton Council has issued an alert on what residents should keep in mind to prevent their household waste and recycling being rejected. Sometimes it’s difficult to know for sure what waste can go into which bin, and this may result in your rubbish being rejected on bin collection day.
Recycling rejection rate remains high
The council has revealed that the 2025/26 recycling rejection rate for the borough is 30%. This is slightly down from the 32% in 2024/25, but is still quite high, the council has acknowledged.
Cllr Peter Harvey, cabinet member for cleansing and street scene, said: “We recognise this is high but that’s why we are taking proactive steps to improve it by making recycling simple, convenient and accessible as possible for residents.
Simple steps to avoid contamination
“There are a few simple steps that can make a big difference; make sure items such as foil trays are clean and free from food, rinse cartons to remove any leftover liquid and leave caps on cartons and bottles so they can be recycled too.
“The key is to ensure items are empty and not contaminated before they go into your recycling bin.
“If you’re unsure whether something is foil, simply scrunch it in your hand. If it stays scrunched, it can be recycled. If it springs back into shape, it’s not foil and should go in your grey bin or rubbish sack.”
Plastic bags and soft plastics
The councillor reminded residents that plastic bags cannot be recycled through kerbside collections as it damages recycling equipment used.
He said: “This is one of the biggest reasons why waste is rejected because it has been placed in a bag rather than loose in your recycling bin.
“Soft plastics, like plastic bags and wrapping can be recycled at larger supermarkets.”
People can visit Recycle Now Recycling Locator online to find out where they can recycle their soft plastics.
The council has two engagement officers whose primary focus is educating residents about waste and recycling.
Cllr Harvey added: “They will work directly with schools, supermarkets and community groups across the borough, helping residents understand how small changes can make a big difference.”
