The new Simpler Recycling rules have changed how households must sort their waste — here’s what garden items are now prohibited from recycling bins
The new Simpler Recycling rules have changed how households must sort their waste — here’s what garden items are now prohibited from recycling bins(Image: Photographer, Basak Gurbuz Derman via Getty Images)
The “Simpler Recycling” regulations came into force back in April of this year, ushering in a more straightforward and efficient standardised waste collection system.
While these changes are designed to encourage households to be more conscious about what goes into their bins, many people have found themselves uncertain about which garden items are recyclable and which are not. The introduction of these updated rules means that a number of items are now banned from being recycled during a thorough home clear-out — and this applies just as much to disposing of materials from outdoor spaces.
Whether you are clearing out your shed, tidying your garage, or giving your garden a refresh, there are several factors to bear in mind before placing anything in the recycling bins.
Garden waste and food waste now must be collected separately(Image: Getty Images)
Ideal Home highlighted some of the most frequently encountered items you are likely to want to throw away in the months ahead, reports the Liverpool Echo.
The UK’s “Simpler Recycling” reforms, introduced under the Environment Act 2021, establish mandatory and consistent recycling practices for both businesses and households across England.
Key provisions include separate collections for food waste, recyclable materials, and garden waste. The scheme is intended to simplify recycling, enhance sustainability, and reduce the volume of waste sent to landfill.
It is worth bearing in mind, however, that certain local authorities are exempt from these new regulations until at least 2040. As such, it is crucial to check with your local council whether these rules are in force in your area.
You can no longer recycle plastic plant pots(Image: Laurence Berger via Getty Images)
Garden items you can no longer recycle
The complete list of garden waste materials that are no longer accepted for recycling and collection can be found on the Government’s website.
Animal beddingBulky waste (including garden furniture and fencing)Garden tools or other gardening equipmentPlant potsPlastic, such as plastic bottlesSandSawdustStone, gravel or bricksTea bags or coffee groundsBranches and trees over a certain size may have to be cut into smaller pieces to follow local guidance
Regarding garden waste, new Government regulations now require that food and garden waste be collected separately from recyclable materials.
The Government previously outlined six kitchen products that are no longer recyclable under England’s updated rules. These include drinking glasses, glass cookware, ceramic crockery, cutlery, and pots and pans.
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