Simpler recycling - small changes can make a big difference

Your local council may have recently changed the way recycling is collected where you live. But as these residents show, recycling is about more than knowing which bin to use. Small changes can help reduce waste and make a real difference.

Turning garden waste into something useful

At Bowling Green Court, Camberley resident Dilys Hodge uses composting to make the most of her garden. Dilys said: “I started gardening when I retired. I’m very thankful to have a patch of garden to cultivate at Anchor. So, composting seemed the right way forward. What comes out of the ground, goes back into the ground.” 

Making do, mending and creating

For Jean Francis at Rosehill, Billingshurst reusing items has always been a way of life.

Jean said:

I remember ration books and gas masks, so make do and mend/recycling is second nature to me; my comfort zone. As a child I learned to turn my dad’s shirt collars, darn his socks, sides to middle sheets and when they wore out, they were made into pillowcases, then eventually used as rags for cleaning. 

I had a Bernina sewing machine for my 21st birthday, the most wonderful gift. My entire wedding regalia and bridesmaids dress cost £25.00 and later, together, we made clothes for both children. 

My Bernina and I now volunteer at the Horsham Repair Café run by my daughter Carrie, carrying out textile repairs. And on a daily basis I find great joy in creating hand-crafted goods to sell to help raise funds for Carrie’s charity: www.sussexgreenliving.org.uk

A creative approach to recycling

At Guardian Court, Polegate resident Bill Beauchamp-Gregory has found another way to give unwanted items a new purpose. Using materials that might otherwise have been thrown away, Bill creates eye-catching pieces for a local groups he supports, including Wayfinder Woman and Dance House UK (an amateur dramatics group). A special thank you to Bill’s Location Manager, Amanda, for modelling some of his beautiful work.

Find out what applies where you live

The government’s Simpler Recycling initiative is designed to make recycling easier and more consistent across England. However, councils are introducing changes at different times, so arrangements may vary depending on where you live.

To make sure you’re recycling correctly, check the guidance from your local council. If you’re unsure what can be recycled in your area, your council’s recycling team will be able to help. You can find your local council here: https://www.gov.uk/find-local-council

And if you’ve found your own creative ways to reuse or recycle, we’d love to hear about them. Email [email protected]