York residents can now recycle more at kerbside

For the first time, residents across York can now recycle food and drink cartons and toothpaste tubes in the same container as glass, plastics and tins, thanks to an upgrade to the city’s kerbside recycling service.

This change marks a significant step forward in simplifying household recycling and forms part of the UK Government’s new Simpler Recycling reforms, which come into effect on 31 March 2026. These reforms require councils across England to standardise recycling collections, making it easier for everyone to recycle more.

York is leading the way by introducing these improvements five months early, working in partnership with Yorwaste to ensure residents benefit from a more consistent and accessible service.

As part of the transition, the removal of carton banks will take place as follows from several locations across the city:

• Bishopthorpe Road car park and St Andrew’s Church: they will be emptied and removed during the week beginning 10 November.
• Tesco Askham Bar and both Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs) they will be emptied and removed during week beginning 17 November.

Cllr Jenny Kent, Executive Member for Environment and Climate Emergency, said:

“This is a fantastic step forward for York. Being able to add Tetrapak cartons and toothpaste tubes to the recycling container on your doorstep helps reduce waste and makes life easier. It’s a great example of York leading the way on sustainability.”

Tom Richards, Transport Services Manager at Yorwaste, added:

“We’re delighted to support City of York Council in making recycling easier and more inclusive. Adding cartons and toothpaste tubes to kerbside collections is a big win for residents and the environment.”

Residents are encouraged to check their collection calendars and visit www.york.gov.uk/recycling  for full details on what can be recycled and how to prepare items correctly.