Cardiff Council has faced criticism for its new recycling scheme as thousands of replacement caddies and sacks have been ordered in the last four months. The council’s rollout of the sack-sort recycling system, initiated three years ago, has led to improvements in the quality of recyclable material. While the new method has shown positive results in enhancing recycling efficiency, it has also generated dissatisfaction among some residents.
Conservative councillor Calum Davies raised concerns about the new recycling system during a council meeting, highlighting the significant number of requests for replacement sacks and caddies. Data revealed that between November 11, 2024, and March 17, 2025, there were a total of 16,139 replacement requests made by residents. While some of these requests were due to the desire to recycle more, issues like bags blowing away post-collection and space constraints for storage were also cited as reasons for replacements.
Despite the council’s assertion that the new scheme has helped improve recyclable material quality and saved costs, Cllr Davies expressed unease about the adverse impacts of the segregated recycling method. He emphasised that the high number of replacement requests within a short period raises concerns about implementation challenges and inconvenience to residents. The data indicated that areas like Riverside, Canton, Pontprennau/Old St Mellons, Llanrumney, and Llanishen saw the highest rates of replacement requests, albeit partly due to recent adoption of the new system.
The council responded by explaining that additional sacks and caddies could be requested by households aiming to recycle more effectively within their properties. They stressed the durability and environmental benefits of the reusable sacks over single-use plastics, which has also resulted in cost savings. The council acknowledged challenges with missed delivery requests inflating the replacement numbers but expected these to decrease over time.
While the new recycling scheme has faced criticism and challenges, the council remains committed to enhancing recycling practices in Cardiff. By involving residents in the recycling process and encouraging active participation, the council aims to maintain the city’s reputation as a leader in recycling initiatives. The shift towards sustainable practices, such as reusable sacks and improved sorting methods, aligns with broader environmental objectives and resource conservation efforts.
As discussions continue around the effectiveness and impact of Cardiff’s recycling scheme, ongoing feedback from residents and stakeholders will be crucial in refining the system for greater efficiency and public satisfaction. By addressing concerns raised by councillors and residents, the council can work towards a more sustainable and community-oriented approach to recycling in the city.