Rubbish can be found in abundance over the festive period leaving kitchen and curb-side bins overflowing.
Recycling Christmas wrapping paper, cards and other packaging is essential if it’s the right material, but not everything can be repurposed.
While it’s hard to sort through every scrap of rubbish when it comes to the aftermath of Christmas Day, carelessness could cost Britons hundreds of pounds this year.
Households across the nation have been warned that there are strict rules surrounding what can and can’t be recycled – and there will be consequences for those who ignore them.
Local councils in the UK are watchful of improper waste disposal and are inclined to impose fines when waste is left lingering outside of collection windows.
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According to Bert Hofhuis, a home expert from Every Investor, there’s some advice Britons should follow to dodge expensive fines, as reported by Bristol Live.
Recycling
Wrapping paper
Not all wrapping paper can be recycled, particularly foil and glitter-covered kinds. One tip to follow is that if it scrunches and stays scrunched, it’s likely recyclable.
Christmas cards
Cards without glitter or metallic effects are usually recyclable, but most will state whether they are or not on the back so always check there first.
Christmas trees
Real trees can often be recycled into chippings so it’s worth checking with your council for tree recycling services.
Boxes and packaging
Cardboard boxes should be broken down without any non-recyclable materials left inside beforehand.
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, so always look for local e-waste recycling options.
Fines for waste disposal
Incorrect recycling
Depending on the local council, placing non-recyclable items in the recycling can warrant fines that range between £60 and £200. To avoid these, ensure you’re only recycling items accepted by your council.
Over-filled bins
Stuffing bins until they overflow, or even leaving extra bags beside the bins can attract hefty fines of up to £150.
Off-schedule disposal
Bins left out on non-collection days or outside of specified hours can result in fines of £80 to £100.
Fly-tipping
This is one of the most serious cases of improper waste disposal and is entirely illegal. Fly-tipping is especially significant during post-Christmas clear-outs and can attract severe fines ranging from £150 to £400.
In extreme cases, prosecution with higher penalties could be ordered, 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 attract varying fines of between £50 to over £200. Always utilise local e-waste recycling options for these items to dodge hefty penalties.
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, so always look for local e-waste recycling options.