Clean Recycling Initiatives

Kent County Council is continuing to build momentum behind its “Shake It Out” recycling campaign, encouraging residents to empty recyclable items from plastic bags and place them loose in household bins.

Launched earlier this winter, the initiative aims to reduce contamination, improve material quality, and prevent disruptions to sorting equipment. Bagged waste and soft plastics remain key sources of contamination, often causing blockages, slowing processing lines, and leading to rejected loads.

The council reports that its facilities are not equipped to handle plastic bags or soft plastics, which contributed to approximately 4,000 tonnes of contaminated recycling last year—resulting in significant avoidable costs and diminished environmental outcomes.

The campaign will focus on reducing waste over the upcoming months.

“The Shake It Out campaign is all about making recycling easier, clearer and more worthwhile for everyone. Most residents want to do the right thing - and this simple action helps make sure their efforts count. By shaking out items and keeping them clean, dry and loose, we can recycle more, waste less and keep Kent’s recycling system running smoothly,” said Paul King, Cabinet Member for Environment, Coastal Regeneration and Special Projects.

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