Old habits die hard, and updated waste collection guidelines mean one of our worst mistakes is about to have even more consequences.
Simpler Recycling was introduced to the England on 31st March 2026. The idea is to bring all local authorities, and their refuse collection providers, onto the same page and make it (in theory, at least) easier to understand what goes into which wheelie-bin.
However, according to WRAP’s 2025 Spring Recycling Tracker, last year 11% of households were putting lightbulbs into bins that did not accept them. Specifically, people are making the mistake of believing these items belong with other glass objects.
‘The arrival of Simpler Recycling is actually a great opportunity for households to take stock of what goes where. Most people want to do the right thing, they just need clear, practical guidance to follow,’ said Colin Hayes, of waste management specialist Panda.
“Lightbulbs are one of the most commonly misplaced items in recycling bins, and with the new rules arriving next month, we’d encourage everyone to take on board how to dispose of them correctly,’ he continued. ‘It’s a simple change that makes a real difference to recycling quality and the environment.’
Hayes adds that LED, CFL and fluorescent tube lighting must be disposed of at dedicated drop-off points, which can be found at local Household Recycling Centres or smaller lamp recycling facilities. Meanwhile, organisations should always treat this items as controlled waste, and double check they have completed the correct paperwork and have compliant processes in place to avoid fines.
Image: Олег Мороз / Unsplash
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