Recycling bins accept more materials under new reforms

New guidelines in Surrey allow items such as juice cartons, empty aerosol cans and aluminium foil to go in mixed recycling bins as part of England-wide reforms; further kerbside collections for plastic films are planned from March 2027.

Local recycling rules in Surrey are changing so more items can be placed in mixed recycling bins. New guidelines introduced on Tuesday allow juice cartons, empty aerosol cans, aluminium foil and certain plastic and metal tubes to be recycled in mixed bins. The changes are part of government reforms to standardize recycling rules across England. Officials say general waste, food waste and recycling should be collected separately under the new guidance. Key details: - New items listed for mixed recycling in Surrey include juice cartons, empty aerosol cans, aluminium foil, non-black plastic pot plants, and squeezable metal and plastic tubes such as those for purée or toothpaste. - The guidance states new items should be clean and empty before being placed in mixed recycling bins. - A spokesperson for Surrey Environment Partnership said the changes will not affect current waste collections and will not require new bins for residents. - Dr Adam Reid, chief sustainability officer at Suez, said the reforms aim to make recycling materials consistent across local authorities across England. - From March 2027, further reforms will add kerbside collections for plastic films that currently must be taken to specialist recycling points. Summary: The reforms expand the range of materials accepted in mixed recycling across Surrey and seek to align local practice with national guidance intended to standardize recycling across England. Officials report that routine collections will continue as before and no new bins are needed. Additional changes to include plastic film at the kerbside are scheduled for March 2027.