Why I don't think the new Simpler Recycling rules are unfair. Isn't it time we did more?

When it comes to the recent introduction of the new Simpler Recycling rules, I'm not really sure why anyone would object.

Perhaps it's because where I live in Wales we've been recycling waste separately for some time, and it doesn't seem that big of a deal. But, even if familiarity has been a factor in this, the reasons I'm pro-recycling lay deeper than that.

In a world where some of the negative environmental changes we experience can be linked to mass production, over-consumption and a rise in packaged products, I don't believe it's asking much of us to try and at least reduce the level of waste that goes to landfill.

Recycling is a must, not a maybe

Yes, I've heard all the arguments and backlash against recycling, and the comments about how councils should be responsible for sorting waste, how some recycling goes to landfill if it's considered contaminated, and how it's not even happening in some regions until later in the year. All of which are naturally making people question the changes.

And, it's not that I don't understand these views, or disagree with them all entirely, it's just that I think we all need to stand up and take a bit of responsibility for our own actions, before we jump on the negative bandwagon.

Personally, I don't believe someone else should sort my rubbish for me. After all, I'm the one that chooses to shop online, buy packaged food and drink from glass bottles that get disposed of once used. It should therefore be me that takes responsibility for this.

I could use a refill store where you take your own containers to stock up on dried food and laundry products. I could find an allotment, or start my own vegetable garden to save buying packaged produce from stores. Or, I could refuse to shop online so that less cardboard enters my home.

But, the reality is, I don't do any of those things, despite telling myself I should and will. And neither do a vast number of homeowners. As adults, we consume at our own free will, and in doing so, we should be prepared to take responsibility for this.

Doing my bit to help the environment

I'm pretty sure most people have felt a pang of guilt when they see ocean creatures or animals caught in plastic and waste packaging, so imagine if the world's population recycled 10 more items each a week to avoid more landfill. It doesn't take a genius to work out that this would have an impact on the planet.

I know recycling isn't a magic fix to the plastic crisis or the issue of landfill but it's a start. And as recycling becomes more ingrained, companies might start choosing more sustainable packaging, governments might do more to prevent climate change, and all of us might make more environmentally-friendly choices.

But that's the point. We all need to do something to help reduce the problem, and if all that's being asked of me is some extra time each week to make sure I put the correct items in the right bins, I just don't feel it's that big of an ask.

Start generating less waste with these ideas

Do I think more could be done? Absolutely

I'm not suggesting that the process has been polished to perfection before being rolled out. And no, the measures don't suit every type of home or homeowner, but rarely does one rule suit all.

I live in a flat with no outdoor space for large bins, so have had to find ways of managing all the separate types of waste I need to dispose of. But, with adjustments to how you manage your waste, and time spent arming yourself with the knowledge of what your local council rules are – rather than making the mistake of assuming it's one rule fits all – it's really not that complicated.

Yes we pay a lot in council tax, and yes, who knows if extra waste collection charges will apply in the future, but right now, there are far bigger problems in the world that keep me awake at night. Having to spend longer sorting my rubbish out isn't one of them.

Here at Homebuilding & Renovating, we are however trying to help you navigate this new territory, so if still aren't sure what waste goes where, take a look at our handy guides to what can be recycled in your garden waste, what to do with items you can no longer recycle and check out these ideas for wheelie bin storage to prevent your bins from becoming an eyesore.

And, above all else, if you aren't sure what is relevant in your area, go to your local council's website to understand the new Simpler recycling rules.