A local authority-led effort has helped make it easier to recycle more – and recycle better.
The Preston City Council recycling education campaign has reached over 265,000 residents, helping to cut recycling contamination reports by 13%.
Delivered under the RECOUP Pledge2Recycle Plastics programme, and funded and supported by environmental consultancy, Beyondly, this citywide scheme was created to increase recycling and to tackle contamination.
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The scheme, which ran from September to December 2024 combined information on recycling spread by billboards, street hubs, schools, community engagement and leaflets delivered to all households in the Preston areas.
It was created with an aim to clarify what can and cannot be recycled with a particular focus on plastics, an area of confusion for Preston’s households.
This is especially important following an 11 tonne increase in plastic, glass and can usage this year from 2023/24.
Councillor Freddie Bailey, Cabinet Member for Environment and Community Safety, said: “The outcomes of this campaign are brilliant. Preston residents want to do the right thing when it comes to recycling, and this campaign helped make that easier.
“By combining local pride with practical information, we empowered people to recycle more and better.”
Preston City Council plan to build on these learnings, with an aim to strengthen relationships with schools and improve access to recycling for households without kerbside bins, considering the needs of neurodiverse residents.
The campaign directly engaged with the community through a dedicated recycling van at the city’s Flag Market and a priority area of Deepdale and the city centre.
Key achievements in the campaign includes a total reach of 265,000 people in Preston, 13% decrease in contamination in plastic, glass and can bins, and a 19% reduction in material rejection at sorting facilities.
Charlotte Davies, Senior Consultant Resource Efficiency and Circularity at Beyondly, said: “At Beyondly, we’re proud to support initiatives that empower communities to make lasting environmental change.
“This campaign in Preston is a fantastic example of how collaboration and clear communication can reduce contamination, increase recycling, and build a more sustainable future.”
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