What Can You Put In A Green Waste Bin

What Can You Put In A Green Waste Bin

Jan 16, 2019

What green waste you can and can’t dispose of

If you've ever wondered about the items suitable for disposal in a green or ‘garden’ waste bin, you've come to the right place. In this article, we will explore the types of waste that can be safely and responsibly placed in a green waste bin. 

Whether you're a seasoned recycler or new to the concept, we've got you covered with useful information and tips to help you make the most of your green waste bin and contribute to a healthier environment. 

Let's dive in and learn more about what can be included in this eco-friendly waste disposal option.

First, what is green waste? 

Green waste refers to biodegradable organic materials that come from plants or their byproducts. This includes grass clippings, leaves, branches, prunings, flowers, and garden trimmings. 

It's important to separate green waste from other types of waste as it can be recycled into useful products like compost or mulch. Properly disposing of green waste can reduce landfill waste, promote sustainability, and support a healthier environment.

What’s the difference between food and garden waste?

Food waste and garden waste are two distinct categories of organic waste. Food waste primarily consists of discarded edible items, such as leftovers, spoiled food, or expired produce. 

On the other hand, garden waste encompasses organic materials derived from gardening activities, such as grass clippings, leaves, branches, pruning waste, and plant trimmings. 

While food waste is predominantly generated in kitchens and households, garden waste originates from outdoor spaces like gardens, lawns, and parks. Properly distinguishing between these waste types is essential for appropriate disposal methods, recycling, and composting efforts.

How To Use Your Green-Lid Wheelie Bin

Using your green-lid wheelie bin is a straightforward process that can help you manage garden organic waste efficiently. Here are some steps to follow:

1. Proper Waste Separation: 
   Sort your waste into appropriate categories before placing it in the bin. Generally, green-lid wheelie bins are used for organic or garden waste, so dispose of items like grass clippings, leaves, and small branches in this bin. Avoid putting non-organic or hazardous waste in this bin.
    
2. Bagging or No Bagging
   Check with your local waste management guidelines to determine if you must bag the waste before placing it in the bin. Some areas may require compostable or biodegradable bags to collect and keep the bin clean easily.
    
3. Avoid Overfilling 
   While disposing of waste, ensure the bin is adequately supplied. The lid should be able to close securely. Overfilled bins might not be collected, or they can lead to littering during the collection process.
    
4. Keep It Clean 
   Regularly clean the green bin to prevent foul odours and pests. Rinse it out with a hose and use mild soap or disinfectant occasionally. Allow it to dry before putting fresh waste inside.

6. Follow local guidelines

Familiarise yourself with local waste management regulations to understand specific requirements for green waste disposal, collection schedules, and any limitations on acceptable items.

By following these steps, you can effectively utilise your green-lid wheelie bin to dispose of organic waste responsibly and contribute to a greener environment.

A full list of what can go in a green waste bin

The green-lidded bins you’re provided with are strictly for the following green items. Here’s a hint – if it’s going to start smelling bad as time passes, chuck it in.

• Grass clippings
• Branches
• Garden Pruning
• Leaves
• Weeds
• Hedge trimmings
• Flowers and dead plants
• Food scraps (fruit, vegetable, animal and fish)
• Coffee grinds
• Grains
• Council-approved compostable bin liners
• Bamboo food containers/cutlery

What not to put in a green waste bin 

Here are items that shouldn’t be placed in green waste bins. You’ll see that many of them are organic – just not biodegradable in a short amount of time.

• Significant amounts of soil
• Treated wood
• Plastic bags
• Plastic plant pots
• Rocks and bricks
• Stones and gravel
• Large logs or tree stumps
• Construction rubble
• Glass
• Metal
• Vacuum dust
• Hair
• Ash

Top green bin tips

Invest in biodegradable or compostable bags

When using your green bin for organic waste, opt for biodegradable or compostable bags to line it. These eco-friendly bags break down naturally, reducing plastic waste and making composting easier. By choosing these bags, you can help promote sustainability while keeping your green bin clean and hygienic. Make a small change with a big impact by switching to biodegradable or compostable bags for your green bin.

The benefits of green waste recycling

Recycling green waste offers a range of environmental benefits that contribute to a more sustainable future. By diverting green waste from landfills, we can significantly reduce the amount of waste that ends there, ultimately minimising landfill space and associated environmental issues. 

Additionally, recycling green waste helps mitigate methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas produced when organic matter decomposes in landfills. Furthermore, through composting, green waste can be transformed into nutrient-rich compost or mulch, which nourishes the soil, enhances plant growth, and reduces the need for chemical fertilisers. This closed-loop approach conserves valuable resources while promoting a more sustainable and eco-friendly approach to waste management.

Hire a garden waste bin at WM Waste

Hiring a garden waste bin at WM Waste is a smart choice for efficient and responsible waste management. By using our green waste removal services, you can easily and conveniently dispose of your garden waste in an environmentally-friendly manner. 

WM Waste ensures the collected green waste is properly recycled, reducing landfill waste and harmful emissions. Moreover, our team of professionals handles the logistics and collection, allowing you to focus on your gardening activities without the hassle of waste disposal. 

With WM Waste, you contribute to a greener future by promoting sustainability, conserving resources, and maintaining a clean and healthy environment. Choose to hire a garden waste bin at WM Waste and experience the benefits of efficient and eco-friendly waste management today.