Spring is the perfect time to tidy up gardens before summer, but households across England could be caught out by new bin rules regarding garden waste disposal. Major changes to recycling in England this year mean that ignoring the latest guidelines could result in your bin not being collected.
Simpler Recycling Reforms
The UK's Simpler Recycling reforms, introduced under the Environment Act 2021, have enforced mandatory and consistent recycling for businesses and households in England. Now, separate collections are required for food waste, paper and card, glass, metal, and plastic. Local authorities must provide clear information about what can and cannot be recycled. However, some councils are exempt from these regulations until at least 2040, so it is essential to check with your local authority to see if the new rules apply.
Garden Items No Longer Collected
Under the new rules, local authorities are no longer required to collect certain garden items for recycling. Here is a list of items that may be affected:
- Animal bedding: Used hay, straw, and bedding from animals such as rabbits or guinea pigs may not be collected. Old pet blankets or fabric beds can be taken to Recycling Centres.
- Bulky waste: Garden furniture and fencing are not covered. Some councils offer one-off bulky waste collections for a fee, or you can take items to a Recycling Centre or use private waste removal services.
- Garden tools: Tools in good condition can be donated to charity shops or community projects. Unusable tools should be taken to a Recycling Centre.
- Plant pots: Local authorities do not have to collect plant pots. Some garden centres have take-back schemes. According to Recycle Now, black plant pots contain pigments that make them undetectable to plastic sorting machinery, so they must go in the waste bin.
- Plastic: Most plastic packaging is recyclable, but some plastics are not. Check the type of plastic and, if unsure, take it to a Recycling Centre.
- Sand: Old sand can be added to a home compost pile or placed in the bottom of potted plants.
- Sawdust: Most councils do not accept sawdust in recycling. Seal it in a plastic bag and place it in the general waste bin, or use a professional waste collector.
- Stone, gravel, or bricks: These should be taken to a Recycling Centre. For large amounts, consider hiring a skip.
- Tea bags or coffee grounds: Local authorities no longer need to collect these. Check local rules; they can be composted at home.
- Branches and trees over a certain size: Oversized branches may need to be cut into smaller pieces to follow local guidance. Use professional waste removal services or take them to a Recycling Centre.
Always verify with your local council to ensure compliance with the new regulations and avoid missed collections.
