Glasgow

1. Waste Categories in Glasgow

Glasgow City Council categorizes waste into several types to ensure proper disposal and recycling:

a. General Waste (Non-Recyclable Waste)

• Includes items that cannot be recycled, such as certain plastics, polystyrene, and contaminated materials.
• Collected in green bins.

b. Recycling

Recyclable materials are separated into specific categories:

• Mixed Dry Recycling (Blue Bins):
  • Paper, cardboard, plastic bottles, cans, and tins.
  • No glass or food waste.
• Glass Recycling:
  • Glass bottles and jars can be taken to local glass recycling points (not collected at the kerbside).
• Food and Garden Waste (Brown Bins):
  • Includes raw and cooked food waste, garden clippings, leaves, and small branches.
  • Note: This service is only available to households with gardens.

c. Bulk Waste (Large Items)

• Includes furniture, mattresses, and large household items.
• Requires a special collection request (see procedures below).

d. Hazardous Waste

• Includes items like batteries, paint, chemicals, and electrical appliances.
• Must be taken to designated Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs) or disposed of through specialized services.

e. Clinical Waste

• Includes medical waste such as syringes and bandages.
• Requires a separate collection service arranged through the council.

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2. Collection Schedules

The collection schedule depends on your location and the type of waste. You can check your specific collection days on the Glasgow City Council website by entering your postcode.

• General Waste (Green Bins): Collected every two weeks.
• Recycling (Blue Bins): Collected every two weeks, alternating with general waste.
• Food and Garden Waste (Brown Bins): Collected every two weeks (seasonal variations may apply).
• Bulk Waste: Collection is arranged on request (see below).

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3. Costs

Most waste collection services are free for residents, but there are some exceptions:

• Bulk Waste Collection: £35 for up to 10 items (as of 2023). Additional charges may apply for more items.
• Garden Waste Collection (Brown Bins): Free for most households, but some areas may require a permit (check with the council).
• Hazardous Waste Disposal: Free at designated recycling centres, but you may need to arrange transport.

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4. Procedures for Disposing of Different Types of Waste

Here’s how to handle each type of waste:

a. General Waste

• Place non-recyclable waste in the green bin.
• Ensure the bin lid is closed; overfilled bins may not be collected.

b. Recycling

• Use the blue bin for mixed dry recyclables.
• Rinse containers to remove food residue.
• Flatten cardboard boxes to save space.
• Take glass to a local glass recycling point (find locations on the council website).

c. Food and Garden Waste

• Place food and garden waste in the brown bin.
• Do not include plastic bags, soil, or large branches.

d. Bulk Waste

• Request a collection online or by calling the council.
• Items must be placed outside your property on the agreed collection day.

e. Hazardous Waste

• Take hazardous items to a Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC).
• For items like paint or chemicals, contact the council for advice on safe disposal.

f. Electrical and Electronic Waste (WEEE)

• Small electrical items can be taken to HWRCs.
• Some retailers offer take-back schemes when purchasing new appliances.

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5. Local Site-Specific Considerations

• Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs):

  • Glasgow has several HWRCs where residents can dispose of items not collected at the kerbside. Popular sites include:
    • Dawsholm Recycling Centre
    • Polmadie Recycling Centre
    • Shieldhall Recycling Centre
  • Check opening hours and restrictions before visiting.
  • Proof of residency (e.g., a utility bill) may be required.

• Fly-Tipping:

  • Illegal dumping of waste is a serious issue in Glasgow. Report fly-tipping to the council via their website or by calling their hotline.

• Contamination of Recycling Bins:

  • Placing non-recyclable items in the blue bin can result in the entire bin being rejected. Follow the council’s recycling guidelines carefully.

• Seasonal Adjustments:

  • Collection schedules may change during holidays (e.g., Christmas and New Year). Check the council website for updates.

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6. How to Stay Informed

• Glasgow City Council Website: www.glasgow.gov.uk
  • Use the postcode search tool to find your collection schedule.
  • Access detailed guides on waste disposal and recycling.
• MyGlasgow App:
  • Download the app for reminders about bin collections and updates on waste services.
• Customer Service: Call 0141 287 9700 for assistance with waste management queries.

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7. Tips for Effective Waste Management

• Reduce Waste: Avoid single-use plastics and buy in bulk to minimize packaging.
• Reuse: Donate unwanted items to local charities or reuse networks.
• Recycle Correctly: Follow the council’s guidelines to avoid contamination.
• Compost: If you have a garden, consider composting food and garden waste.

By following these guidelines, you can effectively manage your waste in Glasgow while contributing to the city’s sustainability efforts. Let me know if you need further assistance!