Better Business / Member news
Bristol waste expands InTheLoop project with new on the go recycling bins
Bristol continues to set the bar high as the leading English core city for household recycling. But it’s not just at home where Bristolians excel; they’re proving to be champions of on the go recycling too.
Recent research reveals that while around nine out of 10 people recycle at home, only four out of 10 recycle while out and about. However, thanks to a collaborative effort between Bristol Waste, Bristol City Council, and environmental charity Hubbub, the city is turning the tide on out of home recycling.
Launched last summer, the InTheLoop project introduced the first permanent on the go recycling bins in central Bristol. The success of the initiative has led to funding for an additional four bins, bringing the total to 28 across the city.
Supported by Hubbub, the Bristol Waste #InTheLoop project simplifies recycling for residents and visitors, allowing them to easily dispose of empty glass, plastic bottles, and cans around Bristol’s harbour area. The introduction of these bins has not only boosted recycling rates but has also played a crucial role in safeguarding local wildlife.
Since their installation, Bristol Waste has collected over a tonne of plastic bottles, cans, and glass bottles from the harbourside recycling bins. This not only keeps litter out of Bristol’s waterways but also ensures these valuable materials remain “In The Loop” and can be repurposed into brand new products.
The brightly coloured recycling bins can be found at strategic locations, including the east side of Redcliffe Bascule Bridge, the corner of Prince Street Bridge and Narrow Quay, Narrow Quay itself, and the M Shed side of Prince Street Bridge.
With the UK witnessing two million pieces of litter dropped daily, initiatives like In The Loop are crucial in preventing litter from polluting waterways and marine ecosystems. By utilising these bins, Bristolians are not only protecting local wildlife but also contributing to a cleaner and safer city environment.
The project not only aids in reducing litter but also conserves valuable resources. Since its inception, over a tonne of plastic and can recycling has been saved, equivalent to approximately 25,000 plastic drink bottles.
Beau Zilesnick, creative partner at Hubbub, expressed delight at the project’s expansion, emphasising the aim to scale up efforts in 2024. Sarah Burns, engagement and sustainability manager at Bristol Waste, highlighted the significance of the additional bins in making on the go recycling more accessible.
As the initiative gains momentum, there are aspirations to extend on-the-go recycling to other parts of the city, marking a significant step towards a more sustainable future. This collaborative endeavour is supported by Bristol City Council.
Main photo: Bristol Waste
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