RCT Progressing Towards Exceeding Welsh Government’s Recycling Target
Rhondda Cynon Taf (RCT) is making significant strides towards surpassing the Welsh Government’s ambitious 70% recycling target for this year. Recent data presented in a council report showcased a commendable recycling performance, with RCT achieving a recycling rate of 70.61% between April and December in 2024/25, marking a noticeable improvement from the 67.23% recorded for the entirety of the previous year.
As reported on Wales Online, the council’s ongoing efforts have ensured that RCT continues to outperform the current Welsh Government recycling benchmark of 64%, as it steadily progresses towards the upcoming target of 70% by April 2025. Following a minor decline in recycling figures from 2021/22 to 2022/23, RCT’s recycling performance surged in 2023/24 after implementing measures such as transitioning to a three-weekly collection frequency for refuse.
Various factors were identified as contributing to the previous dip in recycling rates, including reduced awareness campaigns due to pandemic-related constraints, challenges in specific material recycling exacerbated by the cost of living crisis, and decreased food waste collection. To address these issues, the council introduced several changes to its waste services in 2024/25, with a focus on optimising recycling initiatives to meet the 70% target.
Among the strategic adjustments made were the standardisation of refuse collections from bags rather than wheelie bins, the extension of three-weekly collections for trade refuse, and the enhancement of the online booking system for green waste collection during winter months. Additionally, RCT embraced the Welsh Government Workplace Recycling Regulations 2024, bolstered its waste awareness team, and collaborated with Trivallis on a new collection method in the Pant Y Cerdin estate, Cwmbach.
The transition to standardised refuse collections from bags yielded promising outcomes, such as a 34% reduction in refuse tonnages and notable increases in food waste recycling by 26%, absorbent hygiene products recycling by 12%, and dry mixed recycling by 8%. These changes culminated in an impressive average weekly recycling performance surge of 11% during the latter part of 2024/25.
Moreover, RCT emerged as a leader in weekly dry mixed recycling, achieving an unprecedented 80% recycling rate over the Christmas and New Year period. The council’s proactive approach translated into tangible impacts, as evidenced by the delivery of 17,371 food bins and 7,651 green garden waste sacks in 2024, reflecting respective increases of 11% and 57% compared to the previous year.
Efforts to enhance recycling performance have not only positioned RCT favourably in meeting environmental targets but have also engendered a culture of sustainability within the community. With a holistic approach to waste management and a commitment to continuous improvement, RCT sets a commendable example for other local authorities striving to achieve ambitious recycling goals.
In conclusion, the commendable progress made by RCT in advancing towards and potentially exceeding the Welsh Government’s recycling target underscores the council’s dedication to environmental stewardship and sustainability. By implementing strategic initiatives and fostering community engagement, RCT exemplifies the proactive response required to address pressing environmental challenges and build a greener future for all.