Why recycle

Why should we recycle?

Why is it important for us to recycle?

Every year the UK generates around 30 million tonnes of household waste, of which 5.9 million tonnes is packaging.

Food waste also significantly contributes to the waste issue, with more than 7 million tonnes of food and drink being thrown away, most of which could have safely been consumed. 

These figures are shocking and are primarily a result of consumer lifestyles and a growing  population, among other contributing factors. Busy lifestyles have generated a demand for convenience items creating a ‘throw away’ society. 

We cannot continue to fill up landfill sites or burn rubbish and unwanted items. We need to ensure that we change our behaviour and become less wasteful, reuse and recycle more often. We also need to encourage and educate future generations so they develop good habits and can help pave the way to a waste free world. 

What environmental impact does recycling have?

When we recycle the materials are reprocessed and then used to create new products. This process reduces the demand for natural resources which are collected via mining, quarrying, and logging. Extracting, refining, and processing raw materials requires a higher use of energy. Eliminating these processes, all of which contribute to air and water pollution, will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and will help tackle climate change. 

National waste strategy

The government recognises that more needs to be done and is constantly progressing legislation to make sure businesses and consumers are reducing the amount rubbish produced. Government strategies contain information on how the UK can deal with all sorts of waste including packaging, plastics, electronics, batteries, and end of life vehicles. 


Find out more about recycling

Aerosol Can

Recycling symbols explained  

Recycling packaging is important, but do we know what the recycling logos mean?...

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Why should I recycle?

What can I do to recycle more? 

Read more about why recycling is important and why we need  to make it an unconscious habit...

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Interesting facts on recycling 

Check out some of our facts on the different packaging materials and things we can recycle at home...

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