Belfast

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Waste and Recycling

An introduction to waste disposal and recycling procedures in Belfast.

Sections

1. Categories of Waste

Belfast City Council categorizes waste into the following main types:

a. General Waste (Non-Recyclable)

  • This includes items that cannot be recycled, such as certain plastics, polystyrene, and contaminated materials.
  • General waste is collected in black bins.

b. Dry Recycling

  • This includes paper, cardboard, plastic bottles, tins, cans, and glass.
  • Dry recyclables are collected in blue bins.

c. Organic Waste (Food and Garden Waste)

  • Includes food scraps, vegetable peelings, grass clippings, and small branches.
  • Organic waste is collected in brown bins.

d. Bulky Waste

  • Large items such as furniture, mattresses, and appliances.
  • Requires a special collection service (details below).

e. Hazardous Waste

  • Includes items like batteries, paint, chemicals, and electrical items.
  • These must be taken to designated recycling centers.

f. Textile Recycling

  • Clothes, shoes, and textiles can be recycled at specific collection points or charity shops.

2. Collection Procedures

Belfast City Council provides a regular waste collection service for households. Here’s how it works:

a. Bin Collection Schedule

  • Black bins (general waste): Collected every two weeks.
  • Blue bins (recycling): Collected every two weeks (alternating with black bins).
  • Brown bins (organic waste): Collected every two weeks (in most areas).

You can check your specific collection day by entering your postcode on the Belfast City Council website.

b. Bin Placement

  • Bins should be placed at the edge of your property (e.g., pavement) by 7:00 AM on the collection day.
  • Ensure lids are closed, and bins are not overfilled.

c. Missed Collections

  • If your bin is not collected, you can report it online or by calling the council. Ensure it was placed out on time and contained the correct materials.

3. Recycling Facilities

Belfast has several recycling centers and bring sites where residents can dispose of recyclable and non-recyclable waste. These facilities are free to use for household waste.

a. Recycling Centers

  1. Ormeau Recycling Centre

    • Location: Park Road, Belfast, BT7 2FX
    • Services: General waste, recyclables, garden waste, electrical items, and hazardous waste.
    • Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM.

  2. Blackstaff Recycling Centre

    • Location: 1 Blackstaff Way, Belfast, BT11 9DT
    • Services: Similar to Ormeau, including bulky waste.

  3. Recycling Centre at Palmerston Road

    • Location: Palmerston Road, Belfast, BT4 1QD
    • Services: Focuses on household waste and recyclables.

b. Bring Sites

  • Smaller recycling points located across the city for items like glass, cans, and textiles.
  • Examples: Tesco car parks, community centers, and public spaces.

c. Hazardous Waste Disposal

  • Items like batteries, paint, and chemicals should be taken to designated recycling centers. Check with the council for specific guidelines.

4. Costs

Most waste and recycling services are included in your rates (local property tax), so there are no additional charges for regular bin collections. However, there are costs for certain services:

a. Bulky Waste Collection

  • The council offers free collection for up to 3 bulky items per year.
  • Additional collections cost £5 per item.
  • Book online or by phone.

b. Commercial Waste

  • Businesses must arrange their own waste collection services, either through the council or private providers. Costs vary depending on the volume and type of waste.

c. Fines

  • Improper disposal of waste (e.g., fly-tipping or contaminating recycling bins) can result in fines of up to £80.

5. Local Guidelines and Considerations

To ensure smooth waste management, follow these local guidelines:

a. Recycling Rules

  • Blue bins: Do not place plastic bags, food waste, or contaminated items in the blue bin. Only clean, dry recyclables are accepted.
  • Brown bins: Avoid placing plastic bags or non-compostable materials in the brown bin.

b. Waste Reduction Tips

  • Use reusable shopping bags and containers to reduce waste.
  • Donate unwanted clothes and furniture to local charities.

c. Seasonal Services

  • During Christmas and New Year, collection schedules may change. Check the council website for updates.
  • Christmas trees can be recycled at designated drop-off points in January.

d. Language Support

  • If English is not your first language, the council provides translated materials and support for waste and recycling services.

6. Contact Information

For further assistance, you can contact Belfast City Council:

7. Practical Tips for New Residents

  • Register for Services: If you’ve just moved in, ensure your property is registered for waste collection. Contact the council if bins are missing.
  • Label Your Bins: Write your house number on your bins to prevent mix-ups.
  • Stay Updated: Follow the council’s social media channels for updates on services and recycling tips.

By following these guidelines, you’ll be able to manage your waste and recycling effectively while contributing to Belfast’s sustainability efforts.