Swindon residents are being thanked after their everyday recycling habits helped save more than £3m in public money this year.
Figures released by Swindon Borough Council show that more than 21,000 tonnes of household waste was recycled between January and November 2025. The total includes dry recycling, food waste and garden waste collected from homes across the borough.
If the same material had been thrown into black bins instead, the council says it would have cost an additional £3m to dispose of, underlining how routine household choices can make a significant difference.
The announcement comes as the council prepares for a seasonal spike in waste and recycling collections. Historically, January sees a sharp rise in volumes following Christmas and New Year. Earlier this year, crews collected 1,135 tonnes more waste in January than in August.
With another busy festive period now underway, residents are being encouraged to make full use of Swindon’s recycling and food waste services.
Food is among the most commonly wasted items at Christmas, with staples such as potatoes, vegetables, poultry and leftovers often thrown away despite being suitable for freezing, reuse or food waste recycling.
By placing peelings, plate scrapings and leftovers into food waste caddies, households can help ensure this material is turned into renewable energy rather than sent to landfill. At the same time, recycling wrapping, packaging, bottles and cardboard helps keep unnecessary waste out of general refuse.
Councillor Chris Watts, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for the Environment and Transport, said residents deserved recognition for their efforts.
“I’d like to say a huge thank you to residents for the part they play in reducing waste. Recycling over 21,000 tonnes of material in less than a year is a fantastic achievement and shows how small actions at home can add up to a big environmental benefit.
“Christmas can be a busy and waste-heavy time, but planning meals, freezing leftovers and making full use of food waste and recycling collections can really help. Reducing food waste not only cuts costs, but also helps turn unavoidable food waste into renewable energy.”
Residents unsure about how to dispose of specific items can use the council’s online Waste Wizard at www.wastewizard.swindon.gov.uk.
