When unrecyclable items are placed in recycling bins it can cause the rest of the recycling to be rejected. It then has to be disposed of as rubbish instead, which is more expensive than recycling and more damaging for the environment.
We all know that putting the wrong thing in the recycling is easily done. But if you follow these quick steps, you won’t look back!
- Packaging can be misleading. It can ‘look recyclable.’ Get the right answer by using the Surrey Recycles search tool or download the app for free. Based on your postcode, if an item can’t be accepted in your household recycling collections, the information will include alternative recycling schemes in your area.
- Check what you can recycle separately. In Elmbridge, Mole Valley, Surrey Heath and Woking, food waste and garden waste, small electricals, batteries and textiles recycling are collected separately each week – but they don’t go in your main recycling bin.
- No food or drink. Food residue, moisture and grease will ruin cardboard and paper and make it unrecyclable. Give food and drink packaging a quick rinse by dunking it in with any soaking pans before placing in your recycling bin.
- Place all items loose in your recycling bin – nothing inside bags, sacks or bin liners please.
To find out more, visit our recycling web page.