What to recycle
Discover which materials belong in your recycling bin — and what should stay out!
Recycling Locator ToolUnlock the power of recycling
Every year, each UK household produces over 1 tonne of rubbish and the amount we generate and throw away is increasing rapidly.
A growing population and changes to our lifestyles have influenced our behaviours and habits.
If we can reduce the amount of waste we create through reuse, repair, recycling or by reducing our consumption of goods, it will help reduce the necessity for landfill and expensive methods of disposal, such as incineration.
Expand your knowledge on what rubbish is and how it affects the environment, why you should recycle more and what you can do to reduce, reuse and recycle more waste.
What can I recycle?
Knowing what can be recycled and where items can be taken for recycling means you can actively participate in the recycling process and make a positive impact on our planet.
Explore the diverse range of items that can be recycled in the UK. From everyday packaging to electronic devices and batteries, we want to provide you with valuable insights on what can and should be recycled.
Find your local recycling facilities and make a positive impact on the environment.
Recycling Locator ToolCommonly recycled materials
Not sure what can go in your recycling bin? Start here! From paper and cardboard to plastics, glass, and metals, these everyday items are accepted in most local authority kerbside collections.
Commonly recycled materialsHard to recycle items
Not everything belongs in your kerbside recycling bin, but that doesn’t mean it belongs in landfill. Items like soft plastics, crisp packets, coffee pods, textiles, batteries, and electricals often need special recycling schemes. Many supermarkets, recycling centres, and specialist drop-off points can take them.
Hard to recycle itemsPackaging symbols explained
Just because a package has a recycling symbol doesn’t mean it can be recycled at home. Some symbols are about materials, others about how it was made, and a few are just plain misleading.
Packaging symbols explainedRecycling beyond the bin
Electronics
Old phones, laptops, toasters or TVs? Don’t bin them! Many electrical and electronic items can be recycled safely and responsibly.
Electronic wasteBatteries
Used batteries shouldn’t go in your general waste bin, they can leak harmful chemicals. Take them to a battery recycling point instead.
Waste batteriesDisposable cups
Takeaway cups can’t go in your kerbside recycling bin, but many coffee shops collect them for specialist recycling.
Disposable cups