Global Recycling Day - Blog
Global Recycling Day
The 18th of March 2023 is Global Recycling Day! This blog sheds some light on common recycling misconceptions, and guidance on how to make sure you're recycling the right things in the right place.
Firstly, why is it important to recycle?
You've likely heard of recycling and likely recycle when you can. Recycling means the process of converting waste materials into new materials and objects. By recycling waste, clothes, and items we don't need or use anymore, we're helping to create a healthier planet for ourselves and the future generations. Recycling helps to reduce the amount of waste in our landfills. It also reduces the need for mining, quarrying, and logging, further contributing to the health of our planet.
What are some common recycling mistakes?
Contamination occurs when non-recyclable materials are mixed with recyclables. This normally includes food waste that haven’t been cleaned, such as pizza boxes and milk bottles, and Wishcycling is when people put items in the recycling bin that they hope can be recycled, even though they haven’t checked.
Putting recycling waste in a plastic bag can also contribute to contamination. Instead, put items directly into the bin, or use a reusable box to carry items to the bin. Disposing of contaminated items in the recycling bin can mean that other non-contaminated items become contaminated, they can then contaminate other items. Before you know it, an entire load of waste can no longer be recycled and gets sent to a landfill.
You can find more common recycling mistakes on Coastal Recycling’s website.
What shouldn’t or can’t be recycled?
Somethings seem like they should be able to be recycled because they’re similar to other recyclable items, but in reality, they can’t be. Some items that commonly get confused for recyclable include:
- Crisp packets,
- Polystyrene,
- Paper towels,
- Coffee cups,
- Plastic / Cling film.
If you’re not sure if something can be recycled, you can double check on Recycle Now’s website, which also lets you know where your nearest recycling point is for items that can’t be recycled at home.
Items that can’t be recycled at home, can likely be recycled at your local Household Waste Recycling Centre. Winchester’s Household Waste Recycling Centre is in Bar End Industrial Estate, by the leisure centre. Unfortunately, for safety reasons, you need to visit in a vehicle. If you don’t have access to one, try asking friends and classmates if anyone who has access to a car would mind taking you to one. Some centres, however, allow cyclists, so it’s always worth checking your local centre.
