Rochdale Borough Council in the UK has announced the expansion of plastic recycling capabilities starting 14 October 2024. 

The expansion coincides with the National Recycle Week. 

Residents can now recycle additional plastic including Plastic pots like yoghurt, soup, cosmetics and plastic tubs such as margarine and chocolates. 

In addition, residents can recycle black plastic trays including raw and cooked meat, fruit and vegetable punnets.  

Previously, only plastic bottles were collected for recycling in the area due to their composition of high-quality plastics like polyethylene terephthalate and high-density polyethylene, which have established recycling processes in the UK.  

Other plastic packaging faced limitations due to the lack of sustainable markets. 

The expansion comes as the UK government's Simpler Recycling Policy, which mandates all English councils to recycle a consistent set of materials, is set to come into force by April 2026.   

This policy aims for uniformity in recycling practices across England, both at work and at home. 

In response to the new requirements, the Greater Manchester Combined Authority is upgrading its materials recovery facility. This upgrade will enhance the facility's capacity to sort and separate a broader spectrum of plastic packaging. 

Climate change and environment deputy leader and portfolio holder  

councillor Tricia Ayrton said: “The ability to recycle more plastic items is a welcome addition, meaning more items can be saved from going into general waste, which is even better for the climate. Our recycling rates are extremely positive, and we thank you for helping to keep our borough clean and green.  

“We welcome the government’s drive to improve recycling and understand that policies are being introduced to simplify plastic packaging to encourage manufacturers to design packaging out of materials that can be easily recycled.”