What goes in which bin?

We've all been there, staring at three different bins, debating which one to scrape your plate into or saying to yourself, "Can I recycle this cup?" It's frustrating when you don't know what goes in which bin, but luckily, that's where we step in to help.

Let's break it down for you.

Why do we have different bins?

Firstly, we'll start with the basics, as it's important to know why we have different bins. We have them to separate waste into specific streams, such as recycling, food waste, garden waste, and general waste, to increase recycling, reduce landfill use, and meet environmental regulations. Colour-coding makes it easier for people to separate waste correctly and, in the case of recycling, ensures materials can be repurposed properly.

Which coloured bin should I use?

Around campus, there'll be different coloured bins, and it's important to identify what waste goes in which bin.

Red bins - Coffee cup recycling

Campuses generally have red bins to dispose of takeaway coffee cups. All you need to do is make sure they're empty, separate any leftover liquid, lid and cup into the designated compartments.

But if you can't find a red bin near you, you can put empty single-use cups in general waste bins, not recycling.

Blue bins - Paper recycling

• Paper 
• Card

Green bins - Dry mixed recycling

• Plastic bottles
• Paper and card
• Glass
• Drink cans and food tins
• Drink and food cartons

Grey bins - General waste

• Plastic bags, packaging and wrappers
• Crisp packets
• Tissues and paper towels
• Polystyrene
• Takeaway hot drinks cups (if you can't find the red recycling bins)

Brown bins - Food waste

• Any food leftovers, including fruit, vegetables, meat, dairy, bread, etc
• Tea bags
• Coffee grounds

Quick Tips ♻️

• If you have leftovers in your fridge, try to make a meal out of things you already have instead of throwing food away that's still in date.
• Start reusing, whether it's a reusable water bottle, coffee cup or containers, it can significantly reduce waste.

Disposing and recycling correctly is a shared responsibility between us all, and if you're unsure what goes in which bin, don't be afraid to speak up and ask someone around campus. 

Let's stay sustainable together 💚