Why we have introduced bags
Better quality recycling can be sold for more money
Recycling that is well-sorted is higher quality and can be sold for more money. This helps cover the cost of collections and generates an income to fund vital local services.
Splitting cardboard and paper from glass (using the existing recycling boxes) prevents them accidently getting mixed together. The glass causes damage to the machine which we use to bail the paper and cardboard into big cubes ready to be sold for recycling.
The cost of recycling boxes has increased
The cost of recycling boxes has increased significantly over recent years. We are also experiencing high demand for replacement boxes as they are not very robust.
The bags are cheaper than recycling boxes and take up less room than boxes. This can provide a solution for households who already have limited space for their recycling.
Litter
Feedback from residents on the trial shows that the Velcro closing strip on the bag stops items from being blown onto the street. This reduces the amount of litter on collection days.
Increased space for more recycling
Waste collections will change to every three weeks in June 2025. This means households will need to recycle everything possible and some are likely to need extra space for their recycling. Providing a new bag for recycling provides that extra space without it taking up the same space as another box.