You can risk your bin not being collected due to a simple error
Wheelie bins may not be collected if they are filled with one type of bin bag. Many households can fill up bins quickly, so it can be a nightmare if they are not picked up on bin day.
Refuse collectors can refuse bins if they believe they are contaminated or filled with incorrect items. Local authorities can set their own bin rules, so there are differences depending on where you live.
Yet, one binman has revealed why recycling bins are usually not collected if they contain black bin bags. He has urged households not to place any recycling in plastic bags, especially black bags.
Why are black bin bags refused?
Ashley, who shares tips on his No.1 Binman account, said: “The main reason we do not accept black bags in your recycling bin is that we don’t know what’s in them.”
He explained that some bin lorries are unable to take black bin bags as they can clog up the machine, yet it is more likely that refuse collectors simply don’t know what is inside.
There are strict rules when it comes to recycling. Putting incorrect items in the recycling bin means it won’t be collected, so if rubbish is in a black bin bag, it is assumed to be non-recyclable.
The binman said: “Black bin bags, we can’t see through them and we’re not going to open them and rummage through them.
“We can’t see it, so it is contaminated. We have no idea what’s in your bin. That’s why it is easier to save the money and don’t buy black bags for your recycling bin.”
Instead, place your items in loosely. This allows bin collectors to see what items you have placed in your recycling bin and sort them properly.
New recycling rules for England
In March, new rules came into force for recycling across England. All local authorities in England must, by law, collect food waste from kerbsides weekly as part of the Simpler Recycling reforms.
The Government’s Simpler Recycling scheme aims to increase recycling rates and reduce the volume of waste going to landfill or incineration. The waste gathered is taken to anaerobic digestion facilities, where it’s transformed into renewable energy and fertiliser.
Some councils have delayed the rollout in their area, so the new bins haven’t arrived for everyone. For those who now have food waste bins, there are new rules to follow, including placing only specific items in the new bins.
Waste collectors must now, as standard, collect different categories of waste separately from households, including:
- food and garden waste
- paper and card
- all other dry recyclable materials (glass, metal and plastic, including cartons)
- residual waste (non-recyclable waste that is sent for energy recovery or to landfill)
Circular Economy Minister Mary Creagh said: “We are ending the bin collections postcode lottery and making it easier for people to recycle wherever they live.
“Simplifying these rules will cut out carbon, clean up our streets, and help bring pride back into our communities. We will continue to work hand-in-hand with local areas to deliver these changes and ensure there’s more recycled content in the products we buy.”
