Breaking Down the Recycling Mess In Australia - What You Need to Know to Recycle Like A Pro
Recycling is an essential practice for reducing waste and protecting the environment. However, knowing what can and cannot be recycled in Australia can sometimes be confusing. Different states and councils have their own regulations, but there are some general guidelines that apply nationwide.
Understanding the Australian Recycling System
Australia follows a co-mingled recycling system, meaning recyclables are placed into a single bin (or two) before being sorted at recycling facilities. The most common materials that can be recycled in Australia include:
Paper and Cardboard – Newspapers, magazines, office paper, and clean cardboard.
Glass – Bottles and jars, but no broken glass, ceramics, or Pyrex.
Plastics – Containers marked with recycling symbols 1–7 (excluding soft plastics like plastic bags and cling wrap).
Metals – Aluminium cans, steel cans, and foil (if scrunched into a ball).
In Australia, different materials have varying recycling rates, with metals leading at 87%, followed closely by building materials at 81%. Paper and cardboard are recycled at a rate of 62%, while glass and organic waste sit at 59% and 58%, respectively. Plastics, however, have the lowest recycling rate at just 13% nation-wide.
What shouldn’t be put in the recycling bin?
One of the biggest barriers to recycling in Australia is contamination of recyclable materials. Food waste is the number one culprit of contamination, suggesting there is definitely an element of laziness involved when it comes to recycling, however misinformation and confusion over correct recycling practices also play a large role. Did you know that the following items should not be placed in your recycling bin?
Plastic bags and soft plastics (can only be recycled through specialty recyclers in most areas).
Polystyrene and foam packaging (should be taken to designated drop off locations).
Electronics (should be taken to e-waste recycling facilities or businesses who recycle them).
Food scraps (best composted at home or placed in the green FOGO waste bins if available).
Batteries and light bulbs (should be disposed of at designated drop-off points).
Items smaller than a credit card (should be placed inside larger items of the same material - eg aluminium foil can be scrunched up into a ball and placed inside a can).
Tips for Effective Recycling
Rinse Containers – Ensure bottles, cans, and jars are free of food residue. This gives the items the best possible chance at being recycled. When contamination exceeds a certain level, the whole bin will be sent to landfill.
Check Recycling Labels – Many products now come with the Australasian Recycling Label (ARL) to clarify how to dispose of them properly. Be cautious of soft plastics still labelled with REDcycle logos, and check what your council website recommends.
Avoid Wishcycling – Placing non-recyclable items in the bin hoping they’ll be recycled can cause contamination. Do your best to follow the two steps above and if you really aren’t in a position to in that moment, consider how your waste might impact the rest of the bin. Up to 15% contamination of the bin load is generally acceptable, no more.
Do your research – Take a moment to find out what specialty recycling services exist in your area and spread the word! There are paid services such as Recycle Smart if you lack the time, but have the money to dispose of your waste correctly, or if you have time and want to recycle for free, do a bit more digging. There are plenty of free-of-charge specialty recyclers out there.
Free Specialty Recycling Services in Sydney
1. City of Sydney Doorstep Recycling Collection
Residents within the City of Sydney local government area can book free doorstep collections for items such as clothing, batteries, polystyrene, and electronics. This service ensures that these materials are recycled appropriately without the need to leave your home.
2. TerraCycle Free Recycling Programs
TerraCycle offers free recycling solutions for typically hard-to-recycle waste streams, including items like drink pouches, razors, and beauty products. Residents can join various programs and drop off accepted waste at designated locations throughout Sydney.
3. Pharmacycle for Blister Packs
Medication blister packs, which are challenging to recycle due to mixed materials, can be disposed of through Pharmacycle. Participating pharmacies such as Chemist Warehouse collect these packs, ensuring they are recycled into reusable components.
4. Officeworks
Officeworks offers a comprehensive Bring it Back program, providing free recycling services for various hard-to-recycle items. Designated recycling stations are located at the front of most stores, accepting the following materials:
Batteries: Dispose of used batteries safely to prevent environmental harm.
Ink and Toner Cartridges: Recycle empty cartridges to recover valuable materials.
Pens and Markers: Drop off used writing instruments for proper recycling.
Mobile Phones and Accessories: Recycle old mobile devices and related accessories.
Computers and Accessories: Including laptops, keyboards, and mice.
Digital Storage Devices: Such as external hard drives and USBs.
5. Kimbriki Resource Recovery Centre
If you’re on the Northern Beaches or North Shore, the Kimbriki Resource Recovery Centre accepts various materials free of charge, including cardboard, plastics, textiles, toys and e-waste for recycling. Residents can drop off an unlimited volume of recyclable materials at no cost.
Conclusion
Recycling in Australia can be confusing because there is not one standardised system; but don’t let that overwhelm you. Take the time to do your research. Check your local council’s website for specific information relevant to your area, and help others by spreading the word about any specialty recycling programs you find. Remember that small changes in your recycling habits can make a big impact!