How to make sure you are recycling correctly in 2023 (Mid Sussex)

Tuesday, 14 February 2023 16:04

By Mary Goodsell

The best way to be sure something is recyclable is to look it up. Each recycling program (area) has a slightly different set of rules, based on their facilities. From one town to the next, there may be different items accepted in any given recycling program.

In order not to inadvertently contaminate your recycling bin, look up what your local facility allows whenever you come across an item where you’re not sure if it’s accepted or not. It’s also important to double check the items you think you do know. Occasionally programs change at the beginning of the year due to new laws and regulations, so it’s a good idea to look back to your town’s waste and recycling website to see what they are currently accepting.

How to make sure you are recycling correctly

Standard rules:

Make sure it's clean- making sure all your plastic, glass, and metal containers are clean is an important step in your home recycling. You don't need to run things through a dishwasher, but you should make sure to empty out all food, liquid, or products out of containers you are recycling. Wiping out goopy materials is also essential.

Check that the item is actually recyclable- The best way to be sure something is recyclable is to look it up online. Each recycling program is slightly different based on what machinery they have and who is buying their recycled waste as feedstock. In Mid Sussex, there's a really helpful online guide of what you can and cannot recycle.

Don't use plastic bags to bundle your recycling - never bag or 'bundle' your recycling. Items need to be left loose in the bin to be correctly sorted at the recycling centre. Since the sorting process is so quick, items left in bags are typically sent to landfill because detectors can’t tell what’s inside. Some councils will even reject taking the bin if it is full of plastic bags.

Stay up to date - Keeping up to date on what your local town accepts is one way to ensure you make sure you are recycling correctly and do not accidentally add items to your bin that don’t belong.

More from Lifestyle

Five Most Delicious Pastries Worldwide

Pastries are a universal language of indulgence, with cultures around the world contributing their own unique takes on this delicious art form. From flaky, buttery layers to creamy, custard-filled delights, here’s a list of the five most delicious pastries that should be on every food lover's must-try list:
Five Of The Most Stunning Sunsets In The World

Sunsets captivate us with their breath-taking blend of colours, each unique to the place it graces. From vast deserts to bustling cities, sunset moments connect us with nature, offering both tranquillity and awe. Here’s five of the world’s most stunning locations to experience these natural wonders:
Five Amazing Disco Films to Brighten Your Day

Whether you love a good dance floor, fabulous fashion, or simply need a feel-good escape, these disco films are sure to brighten your day. Here are five amazing disco-inspired movies that will transport you to an era of shimmering lights, soulful grooves, and the ultimate celebration of fun:
Five Incredible Bonfire Displays Worldwide

The bonfire, an ancient tradition of fire and festivity, has become a canvas for celebration across cultures worldwide. Some of these fiery gatherings have evolved into massive public spectacles, where communities come together in awe of blazing art forms that range from awe-inspiring sculptures to burning effigies. Here’s a look at five of the wildest, most impressive bonfire displays that captivate audiences around the globe:
Five Unique Sauces From Around The World

Sauces have a way of capturing the heart of a culture’s cuisine. The right combination of spices, herbs, and textures can bring out the richness of any dish. Here are five lesser-known but incredible sauces from around the world, each with its unique history and flavour profile.