Swindon recycled over 21,000 tonnes of household waste in 2025
Residents thanked for their efforts in saving £3m through recycling
Residents in Swindon have recycled more than 21,000 tonnes of household waste between January and November 2025, saving £3m in disposal costs, according to Swindon Borough Council.
The Council has highlighted the environmental and financial benefits of recycling, noting that the waste total includes dry recyclables, garden, and food waste collected from homes across the area. If this material had been sent to landfill, it would have cost the Council an additional £3m to dispose of.
Waste expected to increase after Christmas
Following Christmas and New Year, the amount of waste collected by Council crews is expected to rise significantly. In 2025, January saw 1,135 tonnes more waste compared to August. Anticipating this seasonal increase, residents are being reminded to take advantage of Swindon’s recycling and food waste collections.
Food items such as potatoes, poultry, vegetables, and leftover meals are among the most commonly wasted during the festive period, despite being simple to reuse, freeze, or recycle. Swindon Borough Council is encouraging households to recycle peelings, leftovers, and plate scrapings using food waste collections, which ensure the waste is converted into renewable energy instead of being sent to landfill.
Dry recycling of wrapping paper, packaging, and bottles can also contribute to reducing waste over Christmas. Simple actions like portion planning, freezing extra food, and reviewing what can be recycled can help families enjoy a sustainable holiday season.
Councillor praises recycling efforts
Councillor Chris Watts, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for the Environment and Transport, commended the efforts made by residents.
“I’d like to say a huge thank you to residents for the part they play in reducing their waste," Watts said. "Recycling over 21,000 tonnes of material in less than a year is a fantastic achievement and shows how small actions at home can add up to a big impact for our environment."
The Councillor added, "Christmas can be a busy and waste-heavy time, but planning meals, freezing leftovers and making full use of food waste and recycling collections can really help. Reducing food waste not only cuts costs, but also helps turn unavoidable food waste into renewable energy.”
Residents who are unsure about how to recycle specific items are encouraged to use the Council’s online Waste Wizard tool.