Recycling may be good for the planet, but it’s causing conflict at home—new research reveals that one in seven UK couples have argued over how to do it properly.
A nationwide survey commissioned by the not-for-profit initiative Every Can Counts found that 15% of couples have experienced disagreements over recycling, with nearly a third of those couples clashing about it weekly. Common sources of tension include mis-sorting items (40%), leaving empty toilet rolls in the bathroom (33%), and failing to rinse containers before recycling (30%).
Of those who have argued, 23% said the disputes escalated into more serious rows, and 15% admitted to giving their partner the silent treatment for a day or longer after a recycling-related disagreement.
Despite the friction, the findings also show a strong commitment to recycling across the UK. Nearly three-quarters of households (73%) have a recycling system in place, and 79% of people feel confident in their understanding of local recycling guidelines.
When asked why their partner struggles with recycling correctly, 28% said they suspect it’s done deliberately to provoke, 27% blamed laziness, and 23% chalked it up to stubbornness over differing methods.
Chris Latham-Warde, Programme Manager for Every Can Counts, said the findings reflect both the complexity of local recycling rules and people’s growing investment in sustainable habits:
“There is lots to remember when it comes to recycling… so it’s not surprising that couples find themselves quarrelling over it. But it’s encouraging that people really care about getting it right.”
He also highlighted the environmental impact of small acts:
“Aluminium, for example, is infinitely recyclable, and a used drink can could be back on the shelf in just 60 days.”
The research was carried out as part of the organisation’s wider campaign to encourage recycling at home and in public spaces. As part of this, Every Can Counts recently conducted street interviews in Preston to gauge public awareness.
Top 10 Recycling Disagreements in UK Households:
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Putting items in the wrong bin
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Leaving empty toilet rolls in the bathroom
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Not washing containers before recycling
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Overfilling the kitchen food caddy
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Leaving dirty pots or plastics for others
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Throwing food waste into the general bin
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Leaving recycling beside, not inside, bins
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Disputes over whose turn it is to take the recycling out
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Failing to flatten cardboard
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Whether greasy pizza boxes can be recycled