The introduction of a new Separated Recycling service in Carmarthenshire is a significant step towards enhancing recycling rates and quality in Wales. This initiative, part of the Welsh Government's 'Collections Blueprint', aims to increase recycling and improve its quality, positioning Wales as a leader in recycling. Carmarthenshire County Council is implementing this service in two phases, with around one-third of homes, primarily in the western parts of the county, transitioning during the first phase in mid-to-late autumn 2026. This transition is crucial as councils face heavy fines for failing to meet recycling targets, which can directly impact council taxpayers. The Council is committed to making the transition as smooth as possible, providing support to help residents adapt to the new service. The new service, known as Separated Recycling, requires residents to sort their recycling into separate reusable sacks and containers, with the Council no longer collecting recycling in single-use blue bags. This shift will enable residents to recycle more waste from home, including plastic bags and wrapping, and household batteries. The Council will deliver the necessary recycling sacks and an annual supply of food waste caddy liners during August and September 2026. Residents will receive a reusable red sack for metals, plastics, and cartons, a reusable orange sack for cardboard, a reusable blue sack for paper, a roll of red bags for plastic bags and wrapping, and a small reusable white sack for household batteries. The service improvements may also include changes to collection days and weeks to ensure efficiency and reliability. All homes will receive a letter in the summer confirming their service status, and a postcode checker is available on the Council's website to check if the changes affect their home. The Council is committed to making the transition as smooth as possible, providing support to help residents adapt to the new service. Residents are encouraged to sign up for free email or text message reminders for their recycling and waste collections. This initiative is a crucial step towards a more sustainable future, and the Council's commitment to smooth transitions is essential to its success.
