New Recycling Rules in England: What You Need to Know
Major changes to recycling have come into force across England, affecting how households dispose of common food packaging items. Under the Simpler Recycling reforms, introduced via the Environment Act 2021, local authorities now have mandatory and consistent recycling requirements for businesses and households. However, some items that were previously recyclable may no longer be collected.
Laminated Foil Items
Items such as pet food pouches and coffee pouches are no longer required to be collected for recycling by local authorities. These should be placed in general household waste bins. If you wish to recycle baby food, pet food, or detergent pouches, they can be taken to selected retailers. Recycle Now advises: "Some coffee pouches are currently recyclable at plastic bags and wrapping collection points. Check the packet for recycling guidance."
Small 'Compostable' or 'Biodegradable' Items
Plastic packaging labeled as 'compostable' or 'biodegradable', including coffee pods, does not need to be collected in recycling bins. According to Recycle Now: "Coffee, tea and hot chocolate pods are made of recyclable materials, but because they are too small for most sorting machinery and contain organic material, they need to be collected separately to ensure they reach the correct recycling facility." Podback, a non-profit recycling service, offers drop-off points at local authority recycling centres, supermarkets, and coffee shops for these items.
Food and Drink Cartons
Cartons containing more than 5% plastic should be recycled with plastic waste, not with paper and cardboard. These are commonly used for milk, juice, and soup products. Always check the packaging to ensure correct disposal, or your bin may not be collected.
Tea Bags and Ground Coffee
Under the new rules, local authorities do not have to collect tea bags or ground coffee for recycling. These can be placed in your food waste bin or added to a home compost heap.
It is essential to check whether the new rules apply in your area, as some councils are exempt until at least 2040. Local authorities are required to provide clear information about what can and cannot be recycled.
