Caerphilly Council reports improved recycling rates after engagement programme

Caerphilly County Borough Council has reported a significant decrease in recyclable materials being placed in general waste bins following a 12-week recycling engagement and education programme.

During Phase 2 of the initiative, Recycling Advisors worked with 5,723 households across various communities, including Machen, Rhymney, and Oakdale. The program utilized monitoring and direct engagement to encourage better recycling habits, with enforcement used only as a last resort. The number of general waste bins containing recyclables dropped from 799 to 154 by the end of the period.

Food waste was identified as the most common misplaced material, followed by cans and plastic bottles. While 23 legal notices were issued, only two cases progressed to Fixed Penalty Notices. Councillor Chris Morgan stated that the results show residents are responding positively to the guidance provided.