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Latest News

  • Back to School: How to Pack a Zero‑Waste School Lunch

    school-lunch-box-with-pancakes-vegetables-and-fru-2025-01-09-18-44-12-utc

    School is back in full swing across Connacht. The early alarms, the new timetables, the school runs – they’ve all returned. And so has the daily question: what’s going in the lunchbox? If you’ve found yourself reaching for the same packaged snacks and juice boxes again, you’re not alone.

    But there’s a better way. It’s not about perfection. It’s about small, practical swaps that can lighten the bin and brighten your child’s day. Welcome to the joys of a zero‑waste school lunch.

    A zero‑waste lunchbox isn’t about being perfect or overhauling your whole routine. It’s about reducing packaging, using everyday reusable items, and lowering waste without extra hassle. It’s a small change with a big impact on our local environment, and it helps families save time and money as the school term gets busier.

     

    Why Zero‑Waste Lunches Matter (Especially Here in Ireland)

     

    Less landfill, more green
    In Irish classrooms and homes, food and packaging waste go hand in hand. In fact, almost 30% of all food produced in Ireland ends up as waste, and schools are one of the biggest contributors. Cutting down lunchbox waste is one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to tackle this.

    Boost healthy habits and awareness
    Opting for reusable containers, beeswax wraps, or stainless-steel bottles doesn’t just help the planet. It also opens up conversations with kids about the environment, personal responsibility, and smarter choices. It’s a brilliant opportunity to teach sustainable habits now that the school year is underway.

    Save money over time
    Those cling film rolls and juice boxes add up. Investing in durable, reusable gear may cost a little upfront, but over a term or a year, your wallet (and the Earth) will thank you.

     

    5 Simple, Sustainable Lunchbox Swaps

    1. Ditch the disposables

    Swap cling film, foil, and cereal bars in plastic wrappers for reusable lunchboxes, beeswax wraps, or stainless containers. These durable swaps pay for themselves over time. They’re eco‑friendly and wallet‑friendly.

    2. Skip single-serve drinks

    Instead of juice boxes or pouches, fill a refillable water bottle or stainless-steel drinks flask. You’ll cut plastic waste and avoid those tiny cartons cluttering the bin.

    3. Use cloth napkins and reusable cutlery

    Swap paper serviettes and plastic forks or spoons for cloth napkins and reusable cutlery. They’re charming, practical, and much kinder to the waste bin.

    4. Think bulk, prep smart

    Buy yoghurt or snacks in family-size containers, then portion them into reusable pots. Prepping over the weekend? Batch-make snack packs to cut down prep time during busy school mornings.

    5. Get kids involved and realistic

    Ask them what they’ll actually eat, not just what looks appealing. Overpacking leads straight to waste. Involving children in packing also makes them more likely to eat and care about their lunch. Plus, it’s a lovely bonding moment before the school run.

     

    group-of-kindergarten-students-eating-food-lunch-b-2025-02-10-13-37-56-utc

    A Practical Zero‑Waste Lunch Routine

    • Prep Ahead: Soak and wrap food in the evening. The morning rush is already full enough.
    • Mix it Up: Pair sandwiches with chopped fruit, homemade granola, or a small salad in reusable containers. Variety means less waste and less nagging.
    • Storage Savvy: Use a cooler bag or ice block if needed to keep perishables fresh.
    • Leftovers-Friendly: Choose leak‑proof containers. Leftovers come home as feedback, not landfill fodder.
    • After-School Chores: Let kids rinse and repack their containers. It makes the next day easier and builds life skills.

     

    A Lighter Bin, A Healthier Mindset

    We’re a few weeks into the school year, and now is the perfect time to reset the routine. Some days you’ll nail it. Others, convenience might win. That’s completely fine. The aim isn’t perfection. It’s progress.

    By taking a few steps towards a zero‑waste school lunch, you’ll start to notice:

    • Less clutter
    • Lighter bins
    • More nutritious, homemade meals going inside

    That’s a win for your child, your wallet, and our planet.

     

    Let’s Keep Connacht’s Lunches Greener

    A zero‑waste school lunch is about as simple and impactful as eco-action gets. Just a few smart swaps, rooted in local habits, with real benefits in affordability and sustainability. At Barna Recycling, we’re here to support Connacht families in making the rest of this school term cleaner, greener, and more mindful.

    Ready to reduce your household waste even more? Sign up for smarter waste services now.

  • Children at Home for the Summer? Fun Ways to Teach Kids About Recycling

    School’s out, and the long summer days are in full swing, meaning more time with the kids at home. If you’re looking for ways to keep them entertained without endless screens or sugary snacks, why not turn to something that’s both educational and fun?

    Teaching children about recycling and sustainability during the summer is the perfect opportunity to build habits that stick, while keeping them happily engaged.

    Here are imaginative, interactive, and downright fun ways to teach kids about waste management this summer.

    1. Bin Sorting Relay Challenge

    Set up a “waste race” where kids must run and place items in the correct bins: brown (compost), blue (recycling), and black (general). Add some common tricky items (e.g., pizza boxes or soft plastics) and have a mini quiz after each round.

    Use this to reinforce proper bin use and check out our Bin Collection Guide for a refresher.

    2. Craft Your Rubbish into Art

    Gather clean waste items like yoghurt tubs, egg cartons, and toilet rolls, and let the kids build something imaginative. Create robots, castles, rockets, or eco-planters for garden herbs.

    Have a mini exhibition at home and let them explain what each piece is made from. It helps them see waste as a resource, not just rubbish.

    3. Green Storytime and Eco Books

    Read stories with a recycling or environmental theme to plant the seeds early. Great choices include:

    • Michael Recycle by Ellie Bethel
    • The Mess That We Made by Michelle Lord
    • George Saves the World by Lunchtime by Jo Readman

    Follow up with a drawing session or role-play based on the story’s characters and lessons.

    4. Composting: The Backyard Science Lab

    Create a child-friendly compost bin outdoors. Teach kids to separate food scraps like banana peels or eggshells from non-compostable items. Use a see-through tub or cut-out viewing window so they can watch the decomposition process.

    Track changes week by week and talk about what’s happening underground – perfect hands-on science!

    5. Pack a Zero-Waste Picnic Together

    Have your children help plan and pack a picnic using no disposables. Use lunchboxes, cloth napkins, refillable bottles, and stainless steel containers.

    Let them count how many pieces of waste they avoided. You can turn it into a game with prizes for the most waste-free ideas.

    teaching kid recycling

    6. Neighbourhood Litter Pick & Scavenger Hunt

    Arm yourselves with gloves, reusable bags, and a list of litter “treasures” to find (e.g., 3 plastic bottles, 2 wrappers, 1 can). This turns a clean-up into an adventure.

    Join local initiatives through Clean Coasts or community Tidy Towns groups. You can even track how much litter your family collects over the summer.

    7. Eco Screen Time

    Transform screen time into learning time. Some great platforms include:

    • SciShow Kids – educational YouTube series
    • Earth Rangers App – interactive eco-missions
    • Our Planet on Netflix – stunning visuals and powerful storytelling

    Pick a topic and discuss what they learned afterwards, maybe even draw their favourite part.

    8. Sustainable Star Chart

    Create a wall chart with daily or weekly green challenges: turning off lights, picking up rubbish, using a reusable bottle, sorting waste. Add stickers or stars for each completed task.

    At the end of the week, reward them with an eco-friendly prize, like a bug viewer, reusable lunch set, or a tree planted in their name.

     

    Make Your Home More Eco-Friendly

    Involving kids in sustainable living not only nurtures environmental responsibility, but it also encourages creativity, confidence, and teamwork. With these fun activities, your family can make the most of summer while building a greener future.

    Want to make your home more eco-friendly? Visit our Household Services or Sign Up and join the Barna Recycling community today.

  • How to Manage Your Waste When Travelling or Camping Around Ireland

    Summer in Ireland is made for outdoor adventures like road trips through the Wild Atlantic Way, camping under the stars in Connemara, or exploring quiet forest parks in Leitrim. But while you’re soaking up nature, it’s just as important to protect it.

    Whether you’re off-grid camping, glamping, or staying at a holiday park, how you manage your waste makes a big difference. With more people choosing staycations, responsible camping practices are more important than ever. Here’s your complete guide to sustainable waste disposal and recycling while on the move.

     

    1. Plan and Pack Smart

    Smart packing reduces waste before your trip even begins. Prepare food in advance using reusable containers, and bring your own refillable water bottles, thermoses, bamboo cutlery, and cloth shopping bags. This reduces your reliance on takeaway containers, plastic wrappers, and single-use items.

    Consider shopping locally before you leave. Visit your nearest farmers market, like those in Galway, Ballina or Sligo, to stock up on fresh produce with minimal packaging. Not only does it reduce waste, but it also supports small Irish producers.

     

    2. Set Up a Mobile Waste Sorting Station

    Bring separate bins or colour-coded bags for general waste, recyclables, and food waste. A basic folding crate system in your boot works brilliantly. Compostable bin liners are ideal for food scraps, and mesh laundry bags can double as makeshift bottle or can holders.

    Labelling the bags clearly helps the whole family get involved and prevents confusion when it’s time to dispose of your rubbish.

     

    3. Research Waste Facilities Before You Go

    Always check ahead to see what waste facilities are available at your campsite or destination. Many remote areas in Ireland operate on a “Leave No Trace” basis, which means you’re expected to take your rubbish home.

    You can check resources like Leave No Trace Ireland or Coillte for up-to-date info on waste guidelines at Irish forest parks and outdoor sites.

     

    4. Shop and Eat the Low-Waste Way

    Avoid heavily packaged foods and shop with waste reduction in mind. Ditch plastic-wrapped snack packs for bulk items or fresh goods that can be stored in tubs or beeswax wraps.

    Consider choosing meal ingredients that create minimal waste, like pasta, potatoes, and local veg. Cook in bulk and reuse leftovers creatively the next day to reduce food waste.

     

    5. Don’t Burn or Bury Waste

    Burning waste – especially plastics – releases toxic fumes. Burying waste damages soil, threatens wildlife, and breaks the principles of responsible outdoor recreation.

    Always use public bins where available, or take waste home for sorting. If you come across litter left behind by others, consider doing a small clean-up. It’s a powerful way to teach kids and fellow campers about environmental responsibility.

     

    6. Clean As You Go

    Tidy your site daily. This avoids a pile-up of rubbish, deters pests, and prevents wind from scattering lightweight waste like paper or foil. Encourage a team effort, especially if camping with children – give them a mini-cleanup mission each evening before dinner.

     

    7. Use Eco-Friendly Toiletries & Products

    Opt for biodegradable soaps, shampoo bars, dishwashing liquids, and even toothpaste. These are safer for the environment, especially when camping near lakes, rivers, or coastal areas.

    Support Irish eco-brands when possible. Many health stores across Connacht stock locally made products that are both gentle and green.

    Need help? Here’s a list of some of the Irish brands focused on sustainable toiletries, natural skincare, vegan soaps, and body care products:

     

    8. Involve the Kids in a Fun Way

    Get creative with waste education. Let kids be “Eco-Officers” for the day or start a nature scavenger hunt that ends with a tidy-up task. Introduce them to litter-picking tools or turn sorting recyclables into a race.

    A good resource for families is the EPA’s Green Home Programme, which includes waste and sustainability challenges.

     

    Travel Lighter, Leave Greener: Join the Waste-Wise Movement

    Managing your waste responsibly while camping or travelling around Ireland protects the natural beauty that draws so many of us outdoors. With a few mindful practices, you can cut down significantly on what ends up in the bin and inspire others to do the same.

    Looking for more household waste tips? Check out our blogs How to Reduce Plastic Waste: Simple Changes That Make a Big Difference and Small, Simple Changes For An Eco-Friendly Bathroom.

    Not a Barna Recycling customer yet? Sign Up here to become part of our eco-conscious community.

  • How to Reduce Plastic Waste: Simple Changes That Make a Big Difference

    Let’s talk plastic! Picture this: you unpack your groceries and end up with more plastic than food. Sound familiar? You’re not alone. Irish homes are awash with plastic packaging, but did you know that of the 372,000+ tonnes we generated in 2021, only a tiny fraction (just over 26,000 tonnes) was actually recycled? That’s a serious problem, but also a huge opportunity for change.

    plastic packaging waste

    Source: https://www.epa.ie

    At Barna Recycling, we know that tackling plastic waste starts with everyday habits at home. In this post, we’ll show you how to reduce plastic waste with realistic tips, bust some recycling myths, share how Ireland is improving, and give you a peek behind the scenes of what happens to your plastics once they leave your blue bin.

    First Up: What Even Counts as Plastic Waste?

    Plastic waste is any used plastic that’s thrown away. Think food wrappers, drink bottles, cling film, and those little nets that come with fruit. The issue? Most of it sticks around for hundreds of years, polluting land, sea, and even our air as it breaks down.

    Some of the worst offenders are single-use plastics: packaging, wrappers, straws, and takeaway containers. These items are used for minutes but can linger for centuries. Reducing our reliance on these throwaway plastics is one of the most effective ways to cut down on waste.

     

    How to Reduce Plastic Waste at Home: Easy Changes That Stick

    You don’t need to go zero-waste overnight. Here are a few ways to make a real dent in your plastic footprint:

    1. Buy in bulk – Fewer packages, less plastic.
    2. Use reusable items – Invest in a durable water bottle, coffee cup, and shopping bags.
    3. Say no to plastic-wrapped produce – Choose loose fruit and veg where possible.
    4. Avoid microplastics – Switch to natural fibre clothes and check cosmetics for plastic beads.
    5. Support local and eco brands – Seek out businesses that use biodegradable or minimal packaging.
    6. Get crafty – Repurpose plastic containers for storage, crafts, or garden use.
    7. Teach your kids – Instilling recycling habits early makes a lifelong impact.

    These simple choices can significantly reduce the amount of plastic leaving your home each week.

     

    Can I Recycle Soft Plastic Now?

    Yes, finally! Since 2020, Irish recycling centres (including Barna’s) can now accept soft plastics like bread bags, bubble wrap, and toilet roll wrappers. These used to be sent to landfill or incineration but are now recoverable thanks to improved technology.

    Here’s the quick test: if it stretches rather than tears, it’s likely recyclable. If it feels crinkly and tears like paper, it’s probably laminated and belongs in the general waste bin.

    Tips:

    • Wash and dry all plastics before tossing them into the blue bin.
    • Keep it loose – don’t bag your recycling.
    • When in doubt, check our What Goes in My Blue Bin page.

     

    What Can (and Can’t) Be Recycled?

    The diagram below is a helpful guide for plastic waste management. The categorisation of plastics helps us to understand which types can be recycled, guiding us to a more sustainable future.

    • PET (1) – Water and soft drink bottles (yes)
    • HDPE (2) – Milk bottles, shampoo containers (yes)
    • PVC (3) – Food wrap, pipes (no)
    • LDPE (4) – Shopping bags, frozen food packaging (check locally)
    • PP (5) – Yoghurt pots, margarine tubs (yes)
    • PS (6) – Disposable cups, foam packaging (no)
    • Other (7) – Mixed plastics (generally no)

    When you recycle right, you reduce contamination and help the entire system work better.

     

    How Ireland Is Tackling Plastic Waste: The DRS Scheme

    Ireland’s Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), launched in early 2024, is already having a big impact. In February 2025, Re-turn, the operator of Ireland’s DRS, celebrated the milestone of 1 billion drinks containers returned by the Irish public. This milestone shows that the number of bottles and cans returned would be enough to circle the globe 4.7 times.

    With return points expanding and public awareness growing, we’re on track to meet our EU targets. This scheme not only rewards responsible behaviour but also keeps recyclable materials in circulation and out of nature.

    What Happens After Barna Collects Your Recycling?

    Our recycling process starts with you. Once your plastic waste is placed in the household recycling bin, our collection crew collects the recycling bins on the designated day and delivers the waste materials to our EPA-licensed recycling facility. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at how your waste is handled:

    1. Collection: Our crews pick up your recycling bins on designated days.
    2. Sorting: At our EPA-licensed facility, items are hand and machine-sorted.
    3. Segregation: Soft plastics are separated using high-tech optical sorters.
    4. Baling: Sorted materials are compacted into bales.
    5. Transport: These bales are shipped to licensed facilities across Europe for reprocessing into new products.

     

    Plastic Waste by the Numbers: Eye-Openers

    • A single plastic bag takes 500 years to decompose
    • 90% of ocean waste is plastic
    • Recycling just one bottle powers a 60W bulb for 6 hours
    • 25 bottles = 1 fleece jacket
    • Plastic production uses 8% of global oil

    These stats show why every small step matters.

    It’s about time YOU took action to reduce plastic waste on OUR planet!

    Reducing plastic waste doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Small, consistent steps, such as buying smarter, recycling right, and supporting systems like the DRS, can add up to a big difference.

    Join thousands of Connacht residents already making that change with Barna Recycling. Together, we can build a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable Ireland.

    Not with Barna Recycling yet? Sign up today to make your recycling count. Join here.

  • Small, Simple Changes For An Eco-Friendly Bathroom

    eco-friendly bathroom

    We don’t often think of the bathroom as a place where we can go green, but it’s actually one of the easiest rooms to make more sustainable. Whether it’s reducing plastic packaging, rethinking how we use water, or switching to earth-friendly alternatives, there are plenty of small changes that can make a big difference.

    If you take a minute to examine your personal care, beauty, and general hygiene routine, you might be surprised to find that often there is more waste in your bathroom than anywhere else in the house. From shampoo bottles, shower gels, soap packaging, disposable razors, to bathroom cleaners and toilet rolls, the list is endless. 

    In this guide, we’ll walk you through a range of easy ideas to help you create an eco-friendly bathroom. With just a few mindful swaps and habits, you can start building a space that’s better for both you and the planet.

     

    Start by Decluttering: Less Really is More

    Creating a sustainable bathroom begins with knowing what you have and what you no longer need. How many half-used shampoo bottles or expired products are sitting in your cabinet right now?

    • Clear out the clutter: Set aside time to sort through your bathroom shelves and drawers. Discard any out-of-date items or those you no longer use.
    • Use what you have: Before buying anything new, make a habit of finishing what you’ve already got.
    • Recycle thoughtfully: Make sure to separate recyclable items, such as shampoo bottles and cardboard packaging, and dispose of them properly.

    Choose Reusables and Biodegradable Alternatives

    Bathroom Recyclable Bottles

    Making your bathroom more eco-friendly doesn’t mean overhauling everything overnight. Start small by swapping out disposable items for longer-lasting, biodegradable or reusable alternatives.

    • Switch to bamboo toothbrushes instead of plastic ones.
    • Use shampoo and conditioner bars to cut down on plastic packaging.
    • Replace disposable razors with refillable safety razors.
    • Opt for reusable cotton pads and facial cloths instead of single-use wipes.
    • Try organic, natural soaps that are free from harmful chemicals and come in recyclable or compostable packaging.

    These swaps don’t just help reduce waste, they also tend to be better for your skin and wallet over time.

    Rethink How You’re Recycling Bathroom Waste

    eco-friendly toilet

    Recycling in the bathroom is often overlooked, but it’s just as important as in the kitchen. A few tweaks can make all the difference.

    • Install a small bathroom recycling bin: This simple addition can encourage proper disposal of items like empty toilet roll tubes, product boxes, and plastic bottles.
    • Rinse and remove lids: Items should be clean and dry to be accepted by most recycling services.
    • Check local recycling guidelines: Some items might need to be taken to a recycling centre, like aerosol cans or certain plastics. Check out What Goes in My Blue Bin if you are unsure about what items you can recycle. 

    By staying informed and consistent, you can turn your bathroom into a hub for responsible waste disposal.

    Note: Items like nappies, toilet rolls, wipes, and cotton wool CANNOT be recycled and should be disposed of in the general waste bin (black Barna bin). 

    Explore Green Bathroom Ideas for a Healthier Space

    Sustainability doesn’t end with products—it extends to design and functionality too. Whether you’re renovating or just refreshing your space, these green bathroom ideas can help lower your environmental footprint:

    • Install water-saving fixtures like low-flow taps and showerheads.
    • Use LED lighting to reduce energy use.
    • Decorate with indoor plants to naturally purify the air.
    • Choose natural materials like reclaimed wood, stone, or bamboo for a warm, organic feel.
    • Paint with eco-friendly paints that have low or no VOCs (volatile organic compounds).

    With a few thoughtful upgrades, you can create a bathroom that looks good, feels good, and does good.

     

    Building Your Zero Waste Bathroom

    An eco-friendly bathroom isn’t just good for the environment, it’s often more economical, healthier, and simpler too. By gradually swapping disposables for reusables, recycling more mindfully, and embracing sustainable design, you’re taking meaningful steps toward a zero-waste bathroom.

     

    Go Green With Barna Recycling

    At Barna Recycling, we’re committed to helping you live more sustainably, starting with your everyday spaces. We are Connacht’s leading provider of waste management services, providing a professional, reliable and environmentally friendly service.

    Not yet a customer? Join today and enjoy the peace of mind that we will recycle what you throw away, lowering the costs to our customers and also to our shared environment.

    Learn more about our contract options and sign up today.

 

Barna Recycling are committed to providing our customers with a reliable, consistent and value for money service.

 

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