Reducing Waste and Recycling
When trying to reduce the amount of waste we produce, we should prioritise reducing our consumption, reusing and repairing what we have and recycling everything else!

Reducing waste
- Shop at zero-waste shops and try buying loose fruit and vegetables
- Reduce food waste by making the most of leftovers and planning your shopping list
- Consider carefully before purchasing non-essential items
Reusing
- Use the Discover app to explore vintage and second-hand shops in Worcester!
- Try using the re-use sheds at the household recycling centres where possible
- If you have something that is damaged, try taking it to a repair café instead of throwing it in the bin. There is one that runs every month in Worcester.
- If you have items you no longer want or need, donate them to charity or resell them online.
Recycling
Currently about 34% of household waste in Worcester is recycled which is behind the national average of 44%. We all need to do our part to ensure that we recycle as much as possible. Recycling is the responsibility of everyone!
Not sure if or where to recycle an item? Have a search on the A-Z of Recycling from Let’s Waste Less Worcestershire.
More information on what can be recycled can be found under Household Recycling and on the Recycle | Worcestershire County Council page.
Severn Waste have created a number of fact sheets on different materials taking you through their recycling journey.
Events
As part of the events booking process, the council encourages event organisers in the city to consider how they will prevent litter, recycle waste and reduce single-use plastics.