Overview
- An online clip by The No1 Binman shows a refuse collector pushing away a recycling bin after spotting dirty pizza boxes.
- UK waste crews are permitted to reject an entire recycling bin if it contains contaminated items such as greasy cardboard.
- Food residue and oil stop cardboard fibres binding during pulping, and a single soiled item can spoil a batch or even a lorry load.
- Only clean, dry sections of pizza boxes should be recycled, with greasy or stained parts torn off and put in general waste or compost.
- Residents are advised to check local council guidance, as accepted items and contamination tolerance can differ by area.