New data has revealed a sharp rise in the number of recycling bins refused collection across Yorkshire and the Humber due to contamination, highlighting growing issues with recycling compliance in the region. Figures obtained through a Freedom of Information (FOI) request by Skips and Bins show that the number of rejected bins surged by 51% in just one year.
Across 12 local authorities in Yorkshire and the Humber, a total of 261,068 recycling bins were refused in 2023 and 2024 combined. The yearly figures jumped from 97,203 in 2023 to 163,865 in 2024, reflecting a worrying regional trend.
Doncaster saw the most dramatic increase, with 65,511 bins refused in 2024 compared to just 4,118 the previous year – a staggering rise of 176%. Other areas with significant spikes included Bradford (+124%), Richmond (+117%), and East Riding (+106%). However, some locations, such as Hull, Rotherham, and Harrogate, recorded reductions in refusal numbers.
The issue stems from contamination, which occurs when non-recyclable or unclean materials are placed in recycling bins. This can result in entire truckloads being rejected and sent to landfill, leading to both environmental and financial consequences.
Scott Hawthorne, Founding Director of Skips and Bins, said: “Even if a small amount of the wrong material ends up in your recycling bin, it can contaminate the entire truckload, meaning tonnes of perfectly good recyclables end up going straight to landfill. Not only this, but you can also be fined up to £200 for placing non-recyclable items in recycling bins.
“The best way to prevent this is to stay up to date with your local recycling rules. Councils may have different regulations, so always check their website for guidance. Rinsing out food containers before recycling is also essential, as food residue is a major contaminant. Recycling symbols provide helpful information on disposal, so always pay attention to them. If in doubt, it’s better to place an item in the general waste bin rather than risk contaminating an entire batch.”
With recycling bin refusals on the rise, residents across Yorkshire and the Humber are being urged to check their local recycling guidelines and ensure they’re disposing of waste correctly to prevent further increases in contamination-related rejections.
