“There is a clear link between information, public engagement in recycling and the quality of recyclable material being collected. Over the past few years ACE UK has seen first-hand the impact of budget cuts on local authority waste teams.

“The priority for councils has of course been to maintain front line services and communications budgets have often been a casualty when making savings. Unfortunately this is now translating into rising quality issues and flatlining recycling rates. 

“This is an area where the industry can provide valuable support to our colleagues in the public sector. ACE UK supplies free communications materials to help councils engage residents in recycling programmes. However there is still a big opportunity for the industry to do more to help.”

Mandy Kelly, ACE UK Senior Recycling Manager

Link to BBC report