1. Would it be possible to provide information about what amount of recycling (in weight) was not recycled due to waste contamination during 2022?
Most waste from Wokingham Borough Council is processed alongside that of other authority’s. The quantity of waste collected as recycling in Wokingham, but which was not recycled is calculated as 2605 tonnes.
A small amount of waste from Wokingham Borough Council is processed separately to that of other authority’s. This occurs when the waste contains a high level of moisture (caused by rainfall). The quantity of waste collected as recycling in Wokingham, but which was not recycled due to high moisture content is calculated as 254 tonnes.

2. Would it be possible to provide information about what amount of recycling (in weight) was not recycled due to waste contamination during 2021?
Most waste from Wokingham Borough Council is processed alongside that of other authority’s. The quantity of waste collected as recycling in Wokingham, but which was not recycled is calculated as 2499 tonnes.
A small amount of waste from Wokingham Borough Council is processed separately to that of other authority’s. This occurs when the waste contains a high level of moisture (caused by rainfall). The quantity of waste collected as recycling in Wokingham, but which was not recycled due to high moisture content is calculated as 946 tonnes.

3. What were the most typical items that were put into recycling which caused loads to be rejected?
By weight, the most common contaminants include bagged mixed/general waste, plastic films and wet paper and cardboard. The waste also contains other items of general waste including things such as crisp packets, wet wipes, face masks and pill packets.

4. What was the cost of disposing of this waste rather than recycling it?
The cost associated with the 2022 tonnages at question one is calculated as £53,333, plus £25,944.
The cost associated with the 2021 tonnages at question two is calculated as £49,823, plus £87,458.

5. How is this waste disposed of? Is it incinerated? Does it go to landfill?
Energy from Waste.

6. Is there anyone at your council we can talk to about this issue?
Please email waste.services@wokingham.gov.uk