Brits warned not to recycle certain items at Xmas or risk eye-watering fines

27 December 2023 , 10:13

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Not all wrapping paper and Christmas cards can by recycled (stock photo) (Image: Getty)

With Christmas Day done and dusted, many households across the nation will be keen to declutter and organise their homes, but not everything can be flung into your recycling bins.

Improper waste disposal is taken seriously in the UK and you are at risk of being punished if you're caught breaking the rules. Local councils are strict about what can and can't be recycled, especially over the festive period, and incorrect recycling or leaving bins outside of designated collection times can result in huge fines.

So, before you reach for your recycling bin to discard metallic wrapping paper, glittery Christmas cards and polystyrene toy packaging, take a look at the latest guidance below.

Home expert, Bert Hofhuis from Every Investor, has issued a warning to homeowners to help them avoid fines this Christmas, as reported by Bristol Live. Here is everything you need to know...

Council rules at Christmas

• Council-specific guidelines - Each local council in the UK has its own set of rules for waste disposal and recycling. It's crucial to familiarise yourself with your council's specific guidelines.
• Collection schedules - During the festive season, collection times may vary. Ensure you're aware of any changes to the usual schedule over Christmas and New Year.

Christmas recycling tips

• Wrapping paper - Not all wrapping paper can be recycled. Avoid foil or glitter-covered paper. If it scrunches and stays scrunched, it's likely recyclable.
• Christmas cards - Cards without glitter or metallic effects are usually recyclable.
• Christmas trees - Real trees can often be recycled into chippings. Check with your council for tree recycling services.
• Boxes and packaging - Break down cardboard boxes, and remove any plastic packaging or polystyrene before recycling.
• Food waste - Compost where possible, and check if your council collects food waste for composting.
• Batteries and electronics - Batteries and old electronics shouldn't be thrown in regular bins. Look for local e-waste recycling options.

Fines for improper waste disposal

• Incorrect recycling - Placing non-recyclable items in recycling bins can lead to fines, which can vary depending on the local council but typically range from £60 to £200. To avoid these, ensure you're only recycling items accepted by your council.
• Exceeding bin limits - Overfilled bins or extra bags beside your bin can attract fines. In some areas, the fines for exceeding bin limits can go up to £150.
• Off-schedule disposal - Leaving bins out on non-collection days or outside designated times can result in fines, often around £80 to £100. Adhere to your council's collection schedule to avoid these penalties.
• Fly-tipping - Illegal dumping of waste, especially significant during post-Christmas clear-outs, can attract severe fines, ranging from £150 to £400. In extreme cases, may lead to prosecution with much higher penalties, so always use designated waste disposal sites and services.
• Special item disposal violations - Improper disposal of special items like electronics, batteries, and large appliances can lead to fines varying from £50 to over £200. Utilise local e-waste recycling options for these items.

Nia Dalton