Why the three-bins recycling system is better for householders and the public purse, according to experts

The three-bin mixed recyclable household waste collection system is better for Northern Ireland’s environment, economy and the local recycling industry, says recycling experts Re-Gen. This is paid for advertising and does not reflect the views of Northern Ireland World.

Re-Gen, which sorts more than 200,000 tonnes of Northern Ireland’s waste each year, is urging Stormont to choose the three-bin system and claims it will mean higher recycling rates.

The company also estimates that the system will save a potential £1 billion cost to the public purse over the coming seven years if an alternative system is chosen – and produce a premium level of recyclate to feed the local recycling sector.

Re-Gen is urging householders to have their say in the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) consultation and opt for the three-bin system. Householders are urged to talk about the issue with their local political representatives.

Choosing new waste recycling collection system

Each of the 11 councils in Northern Ireland currently have different collection systems and DAERA is considering one central method for all of Northern Ireland in the Rethinking Our Resources: Measures for Climate Action and a Circular Economy in NI Consultation. Its core aim is finding the best system for the region’s environment, as we work towards 2030 climate targets.

One of the proposed options is kerbside sort, which is used in Antrim and Newtownabbey, Mid & East Antrim and large parts of Belfast, and expects householders to sort their waste into as many as six bins, with three caddy bins for dry recyclables.

Re-Gen says that Government data shows the three-bin system, where all household rubbish is sorted into three wheelie bins, consistently results in a higher level of recycling – because it’s easy. This mixed recyclable system is run across six council areas including Derry City and Strabane, Newry, Mourne and Down and Mid Ulster.

As the simplest system, it includes a blue, or sometimes green, bin for dry recyclables and glass, with a brown bin for food and garden waste, plus a grey or black bin for residual waste.

Best for the public purse

Independent analysis commissioned by Re-Gen reveals that moving to a six-box system will cost Stormont £1 billion over seven years once the cost of new bin lorries, boxes and a range of other costs are accounted for.

The three-bin system, where companies such as Re-Gen sort the waste, creates high-quality paper, plastic and metal recyclate used by local companies to make new products. With little investment, glass can also be used by local firms to complete the circular waste economy.

The three-bin mixed recyclable system is the best for Northern Ireland’s environment, economy and recycling industry. We are urging Stormont to choose the system which makes sense and which will be the most simple and convenient for householders

Re-Gen Chief Executive Joseph Doherty

He added: “The mixed recyclable system will help Northern Ireland reach its 2030 climate commitments and will save the public purse from needless cost at a time when the finances are stretched. Let experienced companies like Re-Gen sort waste rather than forcing householders to operate a recycling centre from their own homes.”

Have your say

To find out more and have your say in the consultation click here