Recycling myths busted

Recycling is an easy way to help the environment, but there are many myths about how it works. Let’s set the record straight!

Myth: There’s no point in recycling – it doesn’t make a difference

Fact: Recycling saves natural resources, reduces waste, saves energy and cuts down on harmful greenhouse gas emissions. 

In 2023/24, 40,000 tonnes of waste was recycled, saving £4m and preventing 11,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions. 

Your efforts really do count!

Myth: Everything put in the recycling bin ends up in landfill

Fact: Recyclables collected from your home are sorted, baled, and sent to reprocessors to be turned into new products.

Myth: All recycling is shipped abroad

Fact: Many materials are recycled in the UK and Europe, creating jobs and supporting the economy. 

However, some materials need to be processed elsewhere if facilities aren’t available here.

Myth: Recycling uses more energy than it saves

Fact: Recycling saves energy - a lot of it!

For example, recycling aluminium cans uses 95% less energy than making them from raw materials.

Myth: It doesn’t matter if I put the wrong things in my recycling bin - it all gets sorted anyway

Fact: Unsuitable items contaminate the recycling and can cause an entire load to be rejected and sent for disposal. 

Double-check what goes in your bin to keep recycling working properly!

Want to know what can be recycled at home? 

Visit the Binformation Hub at: www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/binformation

Find out more about where your recycling goes at: www.MyRecyclingNI.org.uk