Sheffield

♻️

Recycling and Waste Management

Guidelines for recycling, waste collection, and council services for disposal in Sheffield.

Sections

1. Categories of Waste in Sheffield

Sheffield City Council categorizes waste into the following main types:

a. Household Waste

  • General non-recyclable waste (e.g., food-contaminated packaging, nappies, etc.)
  • Collected in black bins.

b. Recycling

  • Mixed Dry Recycling: Includes paper, cardboard, glass bottles/jars, cans, tins, and plastic bottles.
    • Collected in blue bins or blue boxes.
  • Garden Waste: Grass cuttings, leaves, branches, and other organic garden waste.
    • Requires a subscription for collection or can be taken to a recycling center.
  • Food Waste: Currently, Sheffield does not have a separate food waste collection service. Food waste should go into the black bin unless composted at home.

c. Bulky Waste

  • Large items such as furniture, mattresses, and appliances.
    • Requires a special collection or can be taken to a Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC).

d. Hazardous Waste

  • Includes items like paint, chemicals, batteries, and electrical appliances.
    • Must be disposed of at designated recycling centers or through specific services.

e. Clinical Waste

  • Includes medical waste such as syringes or dressings.
    • Requires a special collection service arranged through the council.

2. Recycling and Waste Collection Procedures

Sheffield City Council provides a kerbside collection service for most household waste and recycling. Here’s how it works:

a. General Waste (Black Bin)

  • Non-recyclable waste is collected every two weeks.
  • Ensure waste is bagged and the bin lid is closed.

b. Recycling (Blue Bin/Box)

  • Mixed dry recycling is collected every four weeks.
  • Items should be clean and dry. Do not include plastic bags, food waste, or textiles.

c. Garden Waste

  • A paid subscription service is available for garden waste collection (approximately £38 per year for a bin, as of 2023).
  • Alternatively, garden waste can be taken to a Household Waste Recycling Centre for free.

d. Bulky Waste

  • The council offers a paid bulky waste collection service. Prices start at around £23 for up to three items.
  • Alternatively, you can take bulky items to a recycling center for free.

e. Hazardous and Electrical Waste

  • Small electrical items (e.g., kettles, toasters) can be taken to HWRCs.
  • Batteries can be recycled at supermarkets or HWRCs.
  • For hazardous waste, contact the council for advice on safe disposal.

3. Collection Schedules

  • Collection days vary by area. You can check your specific collection schedule on the Sheffield City Council website by entering your postcode.
  • The council provides reminders and updates about changes to collection schedules during holidays (e.g., Christmas or bank holidays).

4. Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs)

Sheffield has several HWRCs where residents can dispose of a wide range of waste for free. These centers are open to Sheffield residents only, and proof of address (e.g., a utility bill or driving license) may be required.

Locations of HWRCs:

  1. Blackstock Road (S14 1FY)
  2. Beighton Road (S20 1EA)
  3. Deepcar (S36 2DT)
  4. High Green (S35 4LE)
  5. Shirecliffe (S5 8WA)

Opening Hours:

  • Typically open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM, but hours may vary seasonally. Check the council website for up-to-date information.

Accepted Items:

  • General waste, garden waste, electrical items, furniture, scrap metal, wood, and more.
  • Some items, like plasterboard or rubble, may have restrictions or small fees.

5. Associated Costs

  • General Waste and Recycling: Free kerbside collection.
  • Garden Waste Subscription: ~£38 per year.
  • Bulky Waste Collection: Starts at £23 for up to three items.
  • HWRC Use: Free for most items, but charges may apply for certain types of waste (e.g., rubble, plasterboard).

6. Local Considerations and Tips

  • Contamination: Ensure recycling bins contain only accepted items. Contaminated bins (e.g., with food waste or incorrect materials) may not be collected.
  • Home Composting: Consider composting food and garden waste at home to reduce waste and create nutrient-rich compost for your garden.
  • Reuse and Donation: Before disposing of items, consider donating usable furniture, clothes, or appliances to local charities or reuse organizations.
  • Reporting Missed Collections: If your bin is not collected on the scheduled day, report it to the council within 48 hours via their website or by phone.
  • Seasonal Adjustments: Be aware of changes to collection schedules during holidays or adverse weather conditions.

7. Additional Resources

  • Sheffield City Council Website: www.sheffield.gov.uk
  • Recycling Helpline: Call 0114 273 4567 for assistance with waste and recycling queries.
  • Love Food Hate Waste: A national campaign offering tips to reduce food waste at home (www.lovefoodhatewaste.com).

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