Think green, live clean – what you can and can’t recycle
Recycling right is one of the simplest ways we can all help the environment. Here's your up-to-date guide to what you can and cannot recycle in Arun District, plus where to take those items like paint, batteries and soft plastics.
What can go in your recycling bin?
Your blue/green-lidded recycling bin (or green recycling box in some areas) accepts:
- junk mail, newspapers, magazines, catalogues, directories
- cereal and egg boxes, wrapping paper (if scrunchable)
- clean takeaway containers, foil trays, tin foil
- wine and beer bottles, perfume bottles, jam and sauce jars
- food and drink cans, pet food cans, empty aerosols, biscuit and sweet tins
- fruit juice, custard, soup, and milk cartons
- milk and drinks bottles, bathroom and laundry bottles and tubs (emptied/cleaned)
- moulded plastic packaging, food/fruit/ready meal pots, tubs, and trays (emptied/cleaned)
- plastic container lids
Please make sure all items are:
- clean (free from food and drink leftovers)
- dry (keep your bin lid shut)
- loose (no plastic bags)
- squashed (to save space, squash bottles and boxes)
Please do NOT put these in your recycling bin:
- shredded paper, paper towels, tissues
- polystyrene cups, plant pots, seed trays
- pet food pouches, food pouches, crisp packets
- drinking glasses, crockery, or Pyrex
- cables, batteries, electrical items
- plastic bags and film
You can take these items to your local recycling centre, and some supermarket collection points take batteries and soft plastics.
Paint, electricals, and other items ...
Paint - most household waste recycling sites i.e. the tip, accept paint for safe disposal and some offer paint reuse. Please check with your local site before visiting.
Plant pots - to be placed in general waste at your nearest recycling. Some garden centres will accept them for reuse.
Electrical items - do not put these in your bins. Take small electricals (like kettles, irons, mobile phones) to your local recycling centre. There are separate containers for small and large items.
Batteries - never put batteries in your household bins (they can cause fires) take them to a recycling centre or a collection point at some supermarkets and DIY stores.
Soft plastics - many supermarkets (including Tesco and Sainsbury) now collect soft plastics such as bread bags, crisp packets, and carrier bags, which need to be clean and dry. Look for the dedicated bins near to the store entrances.
Preloved items - some recycling sites have a 'reuse shop' where you can donate and purchase preloved items.
Remember, you need to book a slot before visiting any of the recycling centres in West Sussex.
For information on local sites, opening times and what can be recycled, please see West Sussex recycles.
Alternatively, why not download the free Arun District Council mobile app where you can book a slot (click on 'Find My Nearest) and to find out about all things recycling. Available to download for free now on the App Store or Google Play. More information here: Arun District Council mobile app | Arun District Council
Top tips for recycling
- check before you chuck - if you're unsure, check the West Sussex County Council websites for an A-Z of what can be recycled
- don't bag it - keep recycling loose in your bin - no black sacks or carrier bags
- book ahead - always book a slot before visiting the tip
- ask for help - if you have bulky or hazardous waste, contact the council for advice