Why recycle?

We have identified recycling as a main priority. Local residents are committed to recycling. In 2021/22 51.5% of household waste in the Derbyshire Dales was recycled or composted.

Why recycling matters

Recycling conserves resources

When we recycle, used materials are made into new products. This reduces the need to use natural resources. If materials are not recycled then new products have to be made by extracting fresh, raw material from the Earth, through mining and forestry. Recycling helps conserve important raw materials and protects natural habitats for the future.

Recycling saves energy

Less energy is required when products are made from recycled materials instead of raw materials. Even when comparing all related costs including transport etc. There are extra energy saving because more energy is required to extract, refine, transport and process raw materials ready for industry compared with providing industry-ready materials.

Recycling helps protect the environment

Recycling reduces the need for extracting (mining, quarrying and logging), refining and processing raw materials which creates significant air and water pollution.

Reduces landfill

When we recycle, recyclable materials are reprocessed into new products. As a result the amount of rubbish sent to landfill sites reduces. There are over 500 landfill sites in the UK. These sites produce methane, a powerful greenhouse gas.

For more information on Why Recycling Matters visit recyclenow website

How can you help?

Take simple actions to reduce, reuse and recycle our waste. This protects the environment around us. You can recycle a wide range of materials in the District:

  • glass bottles and jars, plastic bottles and containers, beverage cartons, foil trays, cans and aerosols in your Blue Bin or Blue Box / Blue Bag
  • paper and cardboard in your Blue Bin or Blue Bag.
  • electrical items large items such as cookers and fridges. Also small items such as kettles and toasters at Derbyshire County Council's Household Waste Recycling Centres

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