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Recycling

Where do I start? 

Participation in recycling collections and using available recycling facility and systems is key to improving our environment.  Every 10 tonnes of recyclable materials recovered is equivalent to:

• taking four cars off the road permanently
• providing a year's electricity for 14.5 households, and
• saving enough water to fill 3.5 average backyard swimming pools

Is there room to expand and improve your household recycling efforts? Are there materials you haven't thought of that could be reused and recycled? Have you checked and exploited recycling improvements and initiatives in your area?

Take advantage of kerbside recycling

The council kerbside collection or local waste transfer station are the most popular methods of collecting and disposing of the majority of recyclables. However, not all materials can be handled and processed in this way.

Most councils collect paper and cardboard, aluminium and steel cans and materials stamped with the recyclable symbol. However, not all plastic containers can be handled or recycled by your household collection.

Plastic containers and plastics in general are stamped with a Plastic Identification Code - a number within a triangle. Plastics numbered 1, 2 and 3 are widely accepted. Some councils also accept 4, 5, 6, and 7.  Check with your local council and confirm what collection arrangements are in place for your area and find out what other avenues are available for recycling materials not able to be handled by the standard kerbside collection.

Before placing glass, cans, milk cartons and plastic drink containers into the bins, remove any lids, and rinse and squash containers and boxes.  Especially rinse food containers and dispose of food scraps (in the compost if possible) – old food is not only unpleasant, it attracts vermin and reduces recycling opportunities.

Light bulbs, rubber or plastic hoses or broken drinking glasses can't be recycled – place this material carefully in your garbage bin.  Paint tins can be recycled, only if they are empty, dry and have their lids removed. Pizza boxes and similar packaging can also be recycled if they are empty of food scraps.

Keep garbage out of the collection.  By avoiding contamination of recyclables, you are not only protecting your recycling efforts but also the efforts of many other households in the collection area.

For an easy guide to recycling have a look at the resource centre. Also, contact your local council or use Planet Ark's - Recycling Near You search tool to find out what facilities and initiatives are available to you.