Recycling guide
Compulsory recycling
Recycling is compulsory for households in Swindon. This helps reduce the amount of waste we send for disposal and protects the environment.
We provide a range of recycling services to make it easier for you to recycle the right materials at home.
Why recycling is compulsory
In December 2018, the council agreed a waste strategy to reduce waste and limit its impact on the environment.
Although recycling services are available, Swindon’s recycling rate is currently below 40%. Large amounts of recyclable material are still being put in black wheelie bins or blue bags. This costs the council around £6 million each year in disposal fees.
By recycling correctly, you help reduce costs and protect the environment.
What you must recycle
You must recycle the following items using the correct containers:
- Paper and cardboard
- Tins, cans, foil and aerosols
- Glass bottles and jars
- Textiles
- Plastics
Find out how to recycle each material in the recycling guide.
How we check recycling
Our collection crews may identify households that are not recycling when they collect black wheelie bins, blue bags or recycling boxes.
This can include:
- checking the weight of the bin
- seeing recyclable items as the bin is emptied
- noticing little or no recycling put out for collection
- other non-invasive checks
If there may be a problem, our waste wardens will monitor the situation.
Support from waste wardens
If needed, a waste warden will contact you to explain what needs to be recycled and how to do it correctly. They will offer support and guidance to help you take part in recycling.
We will always work with you first and give you every opportunity to recycle correctly.
Find out more about waste wardens.
When enforcement may be used
If problems continue, we may take formal enforcement action as a last resort. This is set out in Section 46 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.
This law allows us to stop collecting waste if recyclable materials are put in black wheelie bins or blue bags when alternative recycling collections are available.
Please note: We are not required to collect waste that is not presented in the correct way.
If your waste collection is suspended
If we suspend your waste collection, you must arrange to dispose of your waste yourself. You can do this by:
- taking it to the household waste recycling centre.
- using a licensed waste contractor
If you use a contractor, it is your responsibility to make sure they are a licensed waste carrier and can provide a waste carrier’s licence number.
If you use an unlicensed contractor, you remain responsible for the waste and could be fined.
Getting your collection restarted
If your collection has been suspended, you must request a waste warden assessment.
A waste warden will check that your household is recycling correctly before your waste collection can restart.
If recycling does not improve, or you do not contact the waste wardens, your waste collection will remain suspended.