Export of Recyclable Items - Frequently Asked Questions

Is the material that I put in the blue bin being landfilled?

No. The material in the blue bins is transported to a refurbished Materials Recycling Facility (MRF) at Great Blakenham. Here the material is sorted into the different types of material and sent for onward processing.

How much of my blue bin waste is being sent abroad?

Recyclable material is a valuable commodity in the global market place. Some material is being processed in the UK, the rest is sent abroad to countries including China and Belgium.

Can you ensure that the material from Suffolk is meeting the legislation?

The material that you put in the blue bin is taken to a refurbished Materials Recycling Facility at Great Blakenham.  Once sorted, some material is sent abroad. The process is supervised by our Officers to ensure that the material is properly sorted and dealt with in line with all legislation.

How do Babergh know where recycled materials are taken?

Babergh has a duty of care to check where recycled materials are sent. The Head of Natural & Built Environment Division has visited China and saw material from this area being recycled into new products. Compliance with local environmental standards was checked with local regulators who were satisfied with the quality of recycled materials. Babergh and the other Suffolk Councils are therefore satisfied that materials from this area are being dealt with in accordance with International Standards and the Law.

What should l do with my envelope/paper with personal details?

It is recommended that anything you class as confidential should not be put in the blue bin. Shredded paper is not accepted in the blue bin and should be composted at home or put in your black bin.
Shred only the pieces of paper containing personal details. The remainder of the document can be recycled via the blue bin.

Facts about the Process

1. The recyclable material is collected from the household and is then taken to the Materials Recycling Facility at Great Blakenham.
2. At Great Blakenham, the material is sorted both by hand and mechanically. The material is separated into each type (paper, card, plastics, metals) and any contamination is removed.
3. The separated material is then sold to reprocessors, either in the UK or abroad.