Recycle for London helps those struggling with recycling through new campaign

The ‘One bin is rubbish – sort it out’ project, run by Recycle for London, ultimately argues that residents are not given enough resources to maximise their recycling potential.

A survey found that more than half of those living in Harrow suffer from ‘bin digestion’ which forces them to pile recycling items elsewhere.

This leads to issues of embarrassment – almost two in five people said they were self-conscious about the state of their bins – or frequent trips to an outdoor bin.

Others confessed to putting items they wanted to recycle into a regular bin due to a lack of space.

Antony Buchan, from the Recycle for London campaign, said: “Managing recycling at home is something we have to do every day, so it’s not surprising that the majority of London residents regularly suffer from ‘bin-digestion’ and the clutter and mess that comes with it.

“But the good news is there are simple things that can be done to help get to grips with this.

“Having a dedicated recycling bin for inside the home is a great option, but there are plenty of simple, low-cost solutions or ‘bin-hacks’ that can be equally as effective.

“We know Londoners are a creative lot, which is why our new ‘One bin is rubbish’ campaign is encouraging people to share their favourite bin-hacks so that every household can find the recycling solution that is right for them.”

While 46 per cent of those in Harrow said they would recycle more if given another bin, the campaigners have suggested a number of ways to get around the issue.

They included using a stored away basket for newspapers and magazines, and bags for life hooked on doors for bottles.

A bucket under the sink could be used for cans, plastic and glass, while old cardboard wine carriers can be used to store bottles.

They also suggested that children design special recycling boxes, since this will provide a solution and encourage them into the habit of recycling.