E143 - What happens to recycling put in bags?

A Discord discussion prompted us to ask what happens to bagged recycling. During a recent visit to a SUEZ Materials Recovery Facility, we learned that bagged recyclables are often treated as contamination unless staff have time to open them, and some loads can even be rejected if too much material is bagged. While some facilities have bag-splitting equipment, using bags generally increases the risk that recyclable material won't be recycled. As always, check your local authority's guidance, as some collection schemes may be designed to use bags.

This episode of Recycled Content, is the 'Rubbish Question' from...