It’s been more than a month since England’s new ‘simpler recycling’ rules came into force and allowed simple, standardized waste collection. And while they’ve undoubtedly allowed us to be more mindful of what we’re tossing in our recycling bins, those looking to declutter their sheds this spring may have a few questions.
After all, there are so many Things you can’t recycle while decluttering inside Home But as I studied these new recycling rules, I couldn’t help but notice that outdoor spaces are also affected. And now is the time to declutter the shed and set your garden up for summer success, this New rules A spoke is definitely placed in the wheel.
That doesn’t mean you can’t purge your unwanted items or organize things. I’ve broken down all the garden items you can no longer recycle when decluttering your shed to help you understand how these new rules and regulations will affect you. Also, alternatives to what to do with them.
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Garden items you can no longer recycle
As there are many Kitchen items you can’t recycle while declutteringIf you live in England many garden items you can’t recycle at home.
A full list of excluded items is available at gov.uk Easy Recycling Scheme Page. However, below I’ve put together the garden items you’re most likely to come across (and want to get rid of) when decluttering a shed.
- Garden waste
- Plastic plant pots
- Metal packaging containing white spirit, paint, engine oil or antifreeze
- Plastic bottles containing white spirit, paint, engine oil or antifreeze
- Heavy waste (including garden furniture and fencing)
- Garden tools or other gardening tools
(Image credit: Future plc/Douglas Gibb)
Before the new recycling rules came into force many local authorities may have excluded these items from kerbside collection, but it is important to note that this is now a standardized rule for all waste collectors across England. This is to maintain continuous recycling, reduce confusion and potential contamination.
It is worth noting that there are some councils Exemption from these new rules till 2043 at the latest. But now it’s a good idea to understand the dos and don’ts so you know What to do with things after decluttering.
After all, tossing it in your regular trash isn’t the only option. Shannon Murphy, Business Planner and Founder Simple Living Co., says, ‘When it comes to decluttering your garden, new recycling rules in the UK are encouraging more mindful disposal, but it also presents a great opportunity to rethink how we pass things around.’
She adds, ‘As a professional organizer, I always remind clients that decluttering doesn’t always mean throwing things away. Often, there are more sustainable and community-based options available.’
What to do with garden items if they cannot be recycled
1. Garden waste
(Image credit: Future plc/Howard Watter)
The new simplified recycling rules have had a big impact on how you dispose of your garden waste. That’s because it’s now mandated by the government that both food and garden waste must to be collected separately From recycling waste.
To make things easier, many local authorities offer garden waste bins to residents (sometimes for free, sometimes for a small fee). However, some councils do not have the funds or infrastructure available to do so. That is why it is also important to know How to Get Rid of Garden Waste Without a Garden Waste Bin.
‘If you have the space, composting at home is another great long-term solution to turning waste into something beneficial for your garden,’ explains Shannon, ‘and you can use something like this. Crystals 300L Garden Compost Bin (£28.97 at Amazon) To help you do that. Alternatively, most household recycling centers accept green waste.
2. Plastic plant pots
(Image credit: Future plc / Heather Young)
It’s easy to assume that plastic = recyclable, but that’s not always the case. Under the new simplified recycling rules, plastic plant pots will no longer be accepted, which means you’ll need to find Other ways to recycle them When decluttering your shed.
Fortunately, there are many ways to do that, including many Take-back plans which promotes circular economy. This includes B&Q’s plant pot recycling schemeThey use old plastic pots to make new ones that they sell in stores.
Shannon also adds, ‘Many people are happy to take them for seedlings, so a simple “free” box outside your home can work brilliantly. You can also donate them to local allotments or independent garden centers, where they will almost certainly be reused. If you’re feeling creative, they’re also great for reuse, for example, get the kids involved in decorating them and growing their own plants.’
3. Packaging containing white spirit, paint, engine oil or antifreeze
(Image credit: Lisa Fazani)
While plastic and metal bottles are generally recyclable, there are caveats. That’s because any packaging that contains white spirit, paint, engine oil or antifreeze isn’t able to be recycled when decluttering the shed—even if you’ve washed it. This is because residual solvent can prolong and contaminate the process.
That doesn’t mean you can’t use it yourself, though. After all, there are many ways Use plastic bottles in the garden – Including making your own plant labels. Just try to avoid using it to water your plants, as you don’t want to contaminate them with any potentially dangerous materials.
for colorIt’s a good idea to understand How to properly dispose of paint or search Alternative ways to use paint around the house. If in doubt, your local waste recycling center should have a dedicated hazardous waste disposal area. Just make sure you check with them beforehand.
4. Heavy waste (including garden furniture and fencing)
(Image credit: Future plc/Colin Poole)
Although wood, plastic and metal garden items can be recycled, they cannot be recycled through kerbside pickup. Most councils had these rules before the Simpler Recycling Scheme came into force, but now it’s standard across England, rubbish collectors can’t collect it from outside your home.
This is usually because many of these materials – have been used to make them Garden furniture or fencing – stained or treated with chemicals that will contaminate the recycling process. However, many of these materials can be used Upcycling ideas for the garden. This includes building pallet furniture or even an outdoor kitchen. So, keep that in mind when decluttering your shed.
Shannon adds, ‘If it’s in good condition, it’s worth contacting your nearest charity shop warehouse, as many accept larger items and even offer free collection after reviewing photos. Selling through the Facebook Marketplace is also great at this time of year when people are looking for affordable outdoor pieces.’
5. Garden tools or other gardening tools
(Image credit: Future plc / Sophie King)
It may seem like common sense to avoid putting garden tools or other gardening equipment in your recycling bin when decluttering your shed, but new recycling rules expressly prohibit waste collectors from accepting them.
This may give you a chance to second-guess your flimsy decision, and you may just need to invest Better shade collection Or give your tools and equipment some TLC to bring them back to scratch. Something like that Spear & Jackson 6-in-1 Blade Sharpener (£16.99 at Amazon) Items such as garden shears and loppers can help regenerate.
‘Allotments and community gardening groups are often grateful for donated equipment, especially if they are still working,’ adds Shannon. Some recycling centers also have on-site reuse shops, where equipment can be passed on rather than thrown away. Alternatively, including them in a car boot sale alongside other unwanted items can be an easy way to sell a large amount of stuff in one go.’
Ecobag – 25 Pack Extra Strong Heavy Duty Garden Sack
If you’re going to take your garden waste to the top from now on, it’s a good idea to pop it all into these heavy-duty bags. You’ll need to empty the contents when you get there, but you’ll be able to use them again and again.
Cater Corner Tool Storage Rack
Many people feel that they need to empty the shed because they have no space left, but it could be that you don’t have a proper shed organization. This corner organizer may be the solution you need.
Verve Beehive Composter 220L
These compost bins are ideal for sticking to the end of the garden, and will help you compost your garden waste. Just make sure you understand too What can’t be put in the compost bin?.
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Happy shed decluttering!
