The festive season has arrived, and with Christmas markets, light trails, pantos and winter wonderlands popping up across Wales, it’s the perfect time to get out and enjoy it all. But while you’re soaking up the magic, there’s one small habit that makes a big difference to Wales and the planet.
Think before you throw when you’re on the go!
Wales is already the second-best recycler in the world – and with everyone doing their bit, we can reach that No.1 spot. Thanks to the workplace recycling law introduced in April 2024, it’s now easier than ever to recycle when you’re out and about. The progress so far shows just how much your choices matter. So as you wander from one festive event to the next, take a moment to recycle right. Most people in Wales already do this, and it truly pays off. Almost all the recycling you put in the right bin stays in the UK – with 57% processed in Wales and a further 35% elsewhere in the UK. Your good habits support local jobs, strengthen Welsh industries, and conserve valuable resources.
And the impact doesn’t stop there: Recycling metal or glass uses 95% less energy than producing them from raw materials. Just two recycled drink cans can power a DJ set for an hour – your empties could literally help keep the Christmas music going. Food waste becomes renewable energy that powers homes across Wales. One caddy full creates enough energy to run a TV for two hours – that’s your Christmas movie night sorted.
One quick check = a festive win for Wales!
Heading to a Christmas light trail, winter fair or festive family attraction? Many of these places now provide recycling bins on site. So whether it’s your empty hot chocolate cup lid, a drinks bottle, or tangerine peels make sure they go in the right bin. Before you bin anything, glance at the signs so you know what belongs where. You’ll usually spot bins for plastic bottles, drinks cans & cartons, glass, food, paper/card, general waste.
It’s easy to make mistakes when you’re juggling bags, gloves and festive treats – but one misplaced item can contaminate a whole batch of recycling. Every item recycled correctly gets a second life – saving resources, cutting waste and helping us edge closer to that No.1 global recycling spot.
Festive days out made greener
Every item you recycle this festive season makes a difference. Food waste can be turned into energy. Bottles and cans get a new lease of life. Every item binned correctly helps but waste, save resources, and brings us one step closer to the top spot. So wherever Christmas takes you - from markets to mountains, concerts to castles - think before you throw and bin it right. It only takes a moment, but together, we can make Wales the best recycler in the world. Let’s do this!
