Overview
- St Helens Borough Council told residents via TikTok that wrapping paper, gift bags and Christmas cards do not go in local recycling, with only plain brown paper accepted there.
- Experts advise the scrunch test: if paper stays scrunched it is likely recyclable, but anything with glitter, foil, plastic coatings or heavy adhesive should go in general waste.
- Councils and recyclers urge removal of tape, bows, ribbons and glittery sections before recycling, and suggest reusing intact paper and sturdier gift bags where possible.
- Coverage highlights glitter as a microplastic that can contaminate paper streams and force otherwise recyclable loads to landfill.
- Holiday guidance notes collection changes and potential penalties for incorrect disposal, with reports of fines varying by council up to £400; Veolia reiterates that only 100% paper wrap is recyclable.