Middlesbrough Reform Councillor Joanne Rush hopes that the council will write to the Environment Secretary, advocating a ‘traffic light style colour coded system’ on packaging
A Middlesbrough councillor wants packaging to be clearly labelled, in order to improve recycling rates(Image: Shared Content Unit)
A Middlesbrough councillor is campaigning for clearer recycling instructions on packaging. Reform Councillor Joanne Rush wants fellow councillors to back her campaign which would encourage the government to consider a colour coded recycling packaging system across the whole country, including accessible labelling such as braille, or raised tactile markings.
In a motion, going before Middlesbrough Council’s full meeting on Wednesday, April 1, Cllr Rush says that many residents want to recycle responsibly, but often face “confusion” due to “inconsistent and unclear” packaging labels, leading to recyclable materials being put in general waste bins, or instances of non-recyclables contaminating recycling streams. Last year, it was reported that Middlesbrough had the highest levels of recycling rejected in the North East, due to contamination problems.
With recycling instructions often being printed in “very small text”, Cllr Rush says it can be hard to read, particularly for those individuals who are visually impaired or those with reading difficulties. She adds that a clear approach nationally would make recycling easier and improve recycling rates, as well as supporting wider UK environmental objectives. Middlesbrough generally has “poor” recycling rates, as councillors have discussed previously.
Cllr Joanne Rush, Nunthorpe ward(Image: Jo Rush)
Nunthorpe ward Cllr Rush highlights the increasing number of recycling bins being provided to households, with additional collection streams, saying: “If residents are being asked to recycle more, it is only reasonable that the information on packaging is clear, consistent and accessible.” Middlesbrough residents are currently in the process of receiving new red-lidded wheelie bins for cardboard, and food waste caddies, with new collections set to get underway this summer.
Her motion adds: “A simple colour coded system displayed clearly on packaging would allow residents to quickly identify how an item should be disposed of.” If the motion is passed, the chair of the council would write to the Environment Secretary, Emma Reynolds, to urge the government to consider introducing a national “traffic light style colour coded system” on packaging to clearly indicate recyclability, alongside accessible labelling.
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