Recycling Week with CaliWoods

NZ Recycling Week is here, and it's a great opportunity to refresh our knowledge of best recycling practices and take a closer look at how we can all contribute to reducing waste. At CaliWoods, we're all about helping you make sustainable choices, so let's dive into some helpful tips and updates on recycling in Aotearoa.

2024 NZ Recycling Update: Nationwide Standardisation

Recycling Now Standardised Around New Zealand:
New Zealand is moving towards a standardised recycling system across the entire country. This means that no matter where you live, the recycling bins, what can be recycled, and instructions will be the same. This change helps eliminate confusion, ensuring more items are recycled correctly and fewer end up going to landfills. For more information go to the Ministry for the Environment page HERE.

Clear Labels:
Recycling bins are now equipped with clear labels that guide you on what to put in each bin. By following these labels, you'll help reduce contamination, making recycling more efficient and increasing the chances that recyclables are processed properly.

4 Common Recycling Faux Pas 

Even with good intentions, there are a few common mistakes that can lead to contamination in the recycling process. Here’s a quick guide to avoiding these errors:

1. Not Removing Lids:
   Make sure to remove plastic lids from bottles and jars before tossing them in the recycling. This simple step makes sorting and processing more efficient at recycling facilities and prevents them from popping off and potentially injuring someone who works at the recycling center.
2. Including Soft Plastics:
   Soft plastics like bags and wrappers don't belong in your curbside recycling bin. These need to be recycled separately through the Soft Plastics Recycling scheme. Go to https://www.recycling.kiwi.nz/ to find out more. 
3. Not Rinsing Containers:
   Food containers that aren’t rinsed can contaminate the rest of your recyclables. Make it a habit to quickly rinse out containers before putting them in the bin to keep everything clean. They don’t have to be perfectly rinsed - but getting the bulk of the food or liquid is important.
4. Loose Aluminium Foil:
   Instead of throwing small bits of aluminium foil loosely in the bin, scrunch them into a ball larger than a golf ball. This makes it easier for recycling plants to capture and process the foil.

Remember: Reduce First, Recycle Second:

Recycling is great, but reducing waste is even better! Try buying products without packaging or use refill stores, bring your containers, and opt for durable, reusable items whenever possible. Check out our Low Waste Living Guides here for more tips: https://caliwoods.co.nz/blogs/news/tagged/plastic-free-living-guides 

Handy Tips for Better Recycling Habits

• Check for Specialty Recycling Programs:
  While the nationwide system is more consistent, specialty programs still exist for things like e-waste or hazardous materials. Check your local council’s website for these options.
• Compost When You Can:
  Food waste can be composted instead of thrown in the trash. Start a compost system at home to reduce organic waste in landfills.
• Buy Recycled Products:
  Support the recycling loop by choosing products made from recycled materials. Look for eco-friendly packaging and brands committed to sustainability.

How to Recycle Your Safety Razor Blades:

CaliWoods customers, don’t forget about our Razor Blade Returns Program. If you’re using our stainless steel razors, you can return your used blades for proper recycling. Find out how to send your blades back here: Razor Blade Returns Program.

The Takeaway

With standarised recycling rolling out across the country, Recycling Week is a great time to highlight these changes. There are still a few things you need to know, but at least these long-awaited changes will stop the confusion or ‘wish-cycling’ (when you recycle it, hoping that it will be recycled but don’t actually know!). Send this article to a friend or family member who might not know of these changes or easy tips!