Simpler Recycling

Find out more about how your bins will change from 2026

From 2026, every council in England will start to collect a core set of materials, this scheme is called ‘Simpler Recycling’. This means that more materials will be collected at the kerbside in your household bins, which aims to create a more environmentally conscious society where more items can be recycled and reused.

Black wheelie bin with green lid, blue wheelie bin, two grey food caddies , brown wheelie bin and black wheelie bin.

What does this mean for you?

From 2026, you will have up to 5 bins to ensure that you are able to dispose of your waste correctly. As well as the materials we already collect, we’ll also start collecting the following from households directly:

  • glass bottles and jars
  • cartons
  • food waste (on a weekly basis)
  • plastic film (from 2027)
Black wheelie bin with green lid
Paper and card bin (green lid):                                     
  • Paper
  • Card
Blue wheelie bin
Containers bin (blue):
  • Glass bottles and jars
  • Metal food and drinks cans
  • Cartons
  • Plastic bottles, pots, tubs and trays
Grey food caddies which are different sizes
Food waste caddies (grey):

*Smaller caddy to be placed in kitchen, larger caddy to be placed outside with other bins.

  • Plate scrapings
  • Fish including bones
  • Tea bags and coffee grounds
  • Meat including bones
  • Fruit and veg
  • Bread
  • Dairy
Brown wheelie bin
Garden waste bin (brown):

*Subscription only.

  • Small branches
  • Dead plants and flowers
  • Leaves
  • Grass trimmings
Black wheelie bin
General rubbish bin (black):
  • Soiled fast food containers
  • Nappies
  • Bagged animal waste
  • Bagged vacuum contents
  • Other non-recyclable waste

Frequently Asked Questions