Just one dirty container can mess up your recycling bin

To mark World Recycling Day (18 March), environmental organisation Repak is sharing some useful tips for getting the most from your recycling.

Did you know that it only takes a single contaminated container to undo the good intentions of a household recycling bin?

According to a recent Recycling Knowledge Audit, 33 per cent of people in Ireland are unaware that just one dirty bottle, tin, or container can contaminate a whole recycling bin.

When asked, 24 per cent of respondents incorrectly said that contamination doesn’t affect the whole bin, while a further 9 per cent admitted they weren’t sure.

This lack of awareness is translating into real, measurable consequences.

According to EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), an estimated 127,000 tonnes of materials, around one quarter of all items placed in recycling bins each year, are incorrectly disposed of.

Not only that, but 66 per cent of the contents of Ireland’s general waste bins are in the wrong bin.

What is the correct way to recycle in Ireland?

Everything in your recycling bin should be Clean, Dry & Loose.

This means that yoghurt pots should be washed out, the greasy part of a pizza box should be put into the black bin, and none of your recycling should be tied up in bags.

Contaminated items that end up in recycling bins, such as food-soiled containers, wet paper, or mixed materials, can result in the rejection of entire loads.

What can I recycle at home in Ireland?

• Paper and cardboard (e.g. egg cartons, milk cartons, packaging boxes)
• Soft and hard plastics (e.g. butter tubs, bubble wrap, bread wrapper)
• Metals, tins and foils (e.g. food jars, metal lids, soup tins)

Visit Repak.ie for resources, recycling guides, and to take your pledge to recycle better in 2025.