Half of what people are putting in the bin could have been recycled, according to the latest analysis of Cornwall’s rubbish.
Cornwall’s recycling rate has increased by around 20% since weekly food waste and fortnightly recycling and rubbish collections were introduced in 2024.
However, analysis of rubbish collected from 500 Cornish homes, found many people are still putting food and other recyclables in the bin.
The study, which took place in July 2025 and November 2025, revealed that around a quarter of household rubbish consisted of food - and almost half of that food was still in the packaging.
Plastics and metal, paper and card, textiles and glass made up 17%.
Batteries, vapes and other small electrical items were also found in among the rubbish.
This Recycle Week (September 14 – 20), Cornwall Council is urging everyone to think twice before putting things in the bin.
Councillor Loic Rich, cabinet member with responsibility for Environment and Climate Change at Cornwall Council, said: “People in Cornwall are recycling more than ever before but this analysis shows that there is more work to be done.
“It’s quite shocking that so much food, especially food that has never been opened, is being put in the bin. This is costing families a lot of money, and it impacts our environment too.
“It’s also worrying to see things like batteries and vapes being put out with rubbish. These can cause explosions when crushed in the collection lorries so please think about the crews’ safety and recycle batteries and vapes responsibly.”
To check if items can be recycled, use the Council’s online A-Z.
You can also find tips on how to reduce food waste and what to put in your recycling bags and boxes on the Cornwall Council website.
Press release issued on September 14, 2026