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• • Ims Marketing
  • Mar 24, 2026
  • plastic waste, Recycling Tips, waste awareness

  Soft Plastic Recycling: What You Need to Know

  Soft plastics are one of the most confusing waste types for households across Ireland. From bread bags to crisp packets, many people are unsure what goes where and whether these materials can actually be recycled.

  At Barna Recycling, we’re committed to making recycling simpler and more effective for our customers across Connacht. In line with national guidance from MyWaste.ie, we want to clear up the confusion and help you recycle soft plastics the right way.

  The good news? Soft plastics can go in your recycling bin once they meet a few important conditions.

  

   

  What are soft plastics? 

  Soft plastics (also known as flexible plastics) are lightweight, bendable materials that don’t hold a rigid shape.

  Unlike rigid plastics such as bottles and containers, they are typically used for packaging and are designed to be flexible and lightweight.

  Common examples include bread bags, pasta and rice packaging, crisp and snack wrappers, frozen food bags, cling film and plastic wrap, and toilet roll wrapping.

  However, not all soft plastics are created equal, and not all are recyclable through your household bin.

   

  What You Can Put in Your Recycling Bin

  In line with MyWaste guidelines, Barna Recycling customers can place clean, dry, and loose soft plastics in the recycling bin.

  This includes:

  • Bread bags
  • Plastic wrapping from groceries
  • Outer packaging from multipacks
  • Soft plastic food packaging (non-foil backed)

  Key rule: plastics must be clean, dry, and loose – not tied up in bags.

  This is one of the most common mistakes we see. When recyclables are placed inside bags, they often cannot be sorted properly and may end up being rejected.

   

  

   

  What You Should NOT Put in the Recycling Bin

  To avoid contamination and ensure high-quality recycling, there are a few key exceptions:

  ❌ Foil and Foil-Backed Plastics

  • Crisp packets
  • Chocolate wrappers
  • Foil-lined packaging

  These are not recyclable in your recycling bin and should go into your general waste bin.

  ❌ Tin Foil

  While aluminium is technically recyclable, we advise placing tin foil in your general waste bin.

  Why? Because it’s often too difficult to ensure it is fully clean, and it requires significant processing to check for contamination.

  ❌ Dirty or Wet Plastics

  Any plastic that contains food residue, grease, or moisture should not go into your recycling bin.

  Examples:

  • Sauce-covered packaging
  • Greasy wrappers
  • Unwashed food containers

  These can contaminate entire batches of recycling, reducing the chances of materials being successfully reused.

   

  Why “Clean, Dry and Loose” Matters

  This isn’t just a guideline – it’s essential for effective recycling.

  • Clean: prevents contamination
  • Dry: avoids mould and degradation
  • Loose: allows sorting systems to identify materials correctly

  If materials are bagged or contaminated, they are far more likely to be rejected and diverted to landfill or energy recovery.

   

  Practical tips to reduce soft plastic waste 

  Recycling is important, but reducing waste in the first place is even better. Here are a few simple ways to cut down on soft plastics:

  • Choose products with minimal or recyclable packaging
  • Buy in bulk where possible
  • Use reusable containers and bags
  • Support brands with sustainable packaging

  Even small changes in daily shopping habits can significantly reduce your overall waste over time.

   

  Ready to Take Control of Your Waste?

  Understanding what goes where is the first step towards better waste management.

  If you’re looking for a reliable, environmentally responsible waste collection service in Connacht, Barna Recycling is here to help.

  Not a customer yet? Start your journey towards smarter recycling today. Sign up here.

• • Barna Recycling
  • Feb 19, 2026

  Smart Ways to Manage Your Bin Charges and Save Money

  

  Across Connacht, from housing estates in Galway City to family homes in Mayo, Roscommon, Sligo and Leitrim, more people are asking the same question: how do I keep my bin charges low, and what can I do about it? With energy, grocery and mortgage costs all rising, household waste is one area people are keen to get under control.

  The good news is that you have more influence over your bin bill than you might think.

  In Ireland, waste collection operates under a pay-by-weight system. That means the more general waste your household produces, the more you pay. The system was designed to encourage recycling and reduce reliance on residual waste treatment and disposal. While it is effective, it also means that everyday habits directly affect your costs.

  Let’s take a closer look at what is driving charges and how to reduce them in a realistic way.

   

  Why Waste Costs What It Does

  Waste management in Ireland is shaped by environmental policy, regulation and operational realities. While landfill has historically been one of the most expensive disposal methods available, Barna Recycling does not typically send general waste to landfill. Instead, residual (general) waste is exported for treatment at Waste-to-Energy facilities, where it is used to generate electricity.

  According to the Environmental Protection Agency, Ireland continues to work toward reducing landfill and improving recycling performance in line with EU targets. Significant progress has been made, but there is still work to do in reducing residual waste overall.

  A key cost factor for households today is the Government Waste Recovery Levy. This levy applies specifically to residual (general) waste and is charged as part of a national strategy to encourage better waste segregation. It does not apply to recycling or food waste. The aim is simple: to boost recycling rates and reduce reliance on incineration by making it more cost-effective to separate waste correctly at home.

  This levy forms part of Ireland’s broader move toward a circular economy, where materials are kept in use for as long as possible, and waste is minimised at source.

  There are also the practical realities of collection and processing. Waste must be transported, sorted at licensed facilities, monitored for contamination and managed in line with strict environmental compliance standards. Rising fuel and operational costs affect the entire industry.

  At the household level, however, one thing makes the biggest difference: your black bin.

   

  The Black Bin Is the Cost Driver

  Under pay-by-weight, weight equals cost, and food waste is heavy.

  When leftovers, peelings and plate scrapings go into your general waste bin, you are paying residual waste treatment costs and the Government Waste Recovery Levy for material that could have been composted. Multiply that by weeks and months, and it adds up.

  Recyclables can also quietly inflate your bill. Cardboard boxes from online deliveries, plastic bottles, tins and packaging all increase the weight of your general waste if they are placed in the wrong bin. It is rarely dramatic. It is gradual. Small daily habits compound over time.

  The key is not perfection, but consistency.

   

  

  Small Changes That Lower Your Bill

  Reducing your waste charges does not require a zero-waste lifestyle or drastic changes. It is about making practical adjustments that fit into everyday life. Here are the changes that make the biggest difference for households across Ireland:

  • Use your brown bin every week. Food waste is often the heaviest part of household rubbish. Moving food scraps, coffee grounds, tea bags and leftovers into your brown bin can significantly reduce the weight of your black bin.
  • Keep recyclables out of general waste. Cardboard, plastic bottles, cans and clean packaging belong in your recycling bin. Flatten boxes and rinse containers lightly to avoid contamination.
  • Plan meals to reduce food waste. Shopping with a plan, using leftovers creatively, and freezing surplus portions lowers both your grocery bill and your bin weight.
  • Avoid unnecessary packaging where possible. Buying loose produce, choosing refill options and cutting back on impulse online purchases can reduce waste at source.
  • Review your collection needs. If your household size has changed, your waste volume may have too. Reassessing your service plan ensures you are not paying for lifts you do not need. Alternatively, our household team is happy to assist with any queries you have about your waste management plan. They can also offer advice on how to minimise the use of recycling and food waste services.

  None of these steps is complicated. Together, they can noticeably reduce your annual waste costs.

   

  Waste Costs and Ireland’s Climate Targets

  Household bin charges are not just about personal budgets. They are part of Ireland’s broader environmental strategy.

  The Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications has placed waste reduction and circular economy principles at the centre of national climate policy. Reducing landfill reliance is essential to cutting emissions and improving resource efficiency.

  The Government Waste Recovery Levy is specifically designed to support this shift. By applying the levy only to residual (general) waste, it creates a financial incentive for households to recycle more and use their brown bin properly. The less residual waste produced, the less reliance there is on export to Waste-to-Energy plants.

  When households reduce their general waste, they are contributing directly to those national goals. Lower landfill volumes mean lower environmental impact.

  It is collective action, one bin at a time.

   

  The Real Takeaway

  The real cost of bin charges in Ireland is not hidden fees or complicated billing structures. It is habits.

  Most households can reduce their waste bill by focusing on better separation, consistent brown bin use and smarter purchasing decisions. You do not need to aim for zero waste. You simply need to reduce the black bin weight.

  Over the course of a year, those small shifts add up. Lower weights mean lower charges. Better recycling improves system efficiency. Collectively, it means less waste going to landfill across Connacht.

   

  Ready to Take Control of Your Waste Costs?

  If you are reviewing your waste service or considering switching to a more transparent and reliable provider, we are here to help.

  Sign up or review your service today: https://cportal.barnarecycling.com/signup/signup.php

  Let’s make waste reduction practical, affordable and achievable, one household at a time.

• • Barna Recycling
  • Jan 19, 2026

  The Complete Guide to Smart Bulk Waste Management (2026 Edition)

  

  Large, bulky waste items — from old mattresses to worn‑out wardrobes — often leave Irish homes feeling cluttered and confused about what to do with them. These pieces are too big for your household bins and, if not properly managed, can end up in landfill unnecessarily. 

  Whether you’re spring‑cleaning, renovating, moving home, or simply doing a clear‑out, this updated guide will walk you through smart, sustainable, and cost‑effective ways to handle bulky waste. We’ll cover what counts as bulky waste, how to make the most of reuse and recycling options, and practical steps to make your next disposal trip easier.

   

  What Counts as Bulky Waste? (And Why It Matters)

  Bulky waste refers to large items that can’t fit into your regular household bin — things like:

  • Sofas, chairs & tables
  • Mattresses & bed frames
  • Wardrobes & shelving units
  • Large appliances (fridges, freezers, washers)
  • TVs & other large electronics

  Knowing what qualifies helps you plan disposal properly and avoid fines or unnecessary landfill trips. It also helps you choose the right recycling or reuse option, ensuring materials are repurposed wherever possible. 

   

  Tip #1: Plan Before You Declutter — Sort First

  Before hauling items away, set aside time to assess what can be kept, reused or recycled. This simple upfront step does three big things:

  1. Reduces waste at the source by avoiding unnecessary throws. 
  2. Helps you identify reusable pieces for donation or resale.
  3. Saves money – fewer trips to disposal sites and fewer charges.

  How to sort your bulky waste:

  • Keep items that are still functional
  • Repair / Upcycle items with minor wear (see next section)
  • Donate pieces in good condition
  • Recycle / Dispose of only what can’t be reused

  This upfront sorting is part of responsible waste planning and puts the circular‑economy principle – reducing waste before disposal – into practice. 

   

  Tip #2: Give Old Items a Second Life (Upcycling & Donation)

  Instead of heading straight to disposal, think about reuse or repurposing: 

  Upcycling

  Upcycling is about turning something old into something new and useful – sometimes even better than its original form. For example:

  • Turn an old wooden dresser into a feature shelf
  • Repaint and re‑upholster tired chairs for a fresh home look
  • Convert old doors into rustic worktops or garden benches

  These creative projects not only cut waste, but can also be a weekend project that saves money and reduces your environmental footprint.

  Donate to Charity or Community Reuse Centres

  If your bulky item is still in decent condition, many charities and community groups will gladly take it off your hands. Before donating, check whether they accept large items, especially bulky furniture.

  This is a win‑win: your item goes to someone who needs it, and fewer resources go to disposal. 

   

  Tip #3: Use Your Local Civic Amenity Site Like a Pro

  When reuse isn’t possible, your local civic amenity site is the next best stop. At Barna Recycling sites, you’ll find experienced staff on hand to help you:

  • Identify different waste types
  • Suggest the right places for each item
  • Advise on recycling options, including WEEE (Waste Electrical & Electronic Equipment), which is accepted free of charge 

  Quick practical steps for your visit:

  ✔ Plan ahead – know what you’re bringing
  ✔ Secure items safely for transport
  ✔ Ask staff for help if you’re unsure where something goes

  This not only makes your trip more efficient but also ensures materials are recycled or disposed of correctly, protecting the environment and local communities. 

   

  Tip #4: Know Ireland’s Waste Hierarchy

  Understanding the waste hierarchy helps you make the most sustainable choices:

  1. Reduce
  2. Reuse
  3. Recycle
  4. Recover
  5. Dispose

  Bulky waste management should always aim for the highest possible step, for example, reuse before recycling. This approach reduces pressure on landfills and supports a circular economy mindset. 

   

  Tip #5: Avoid Common Bulky Waste Mistakes

  Here are a few things people often overlook:

  🚫 Leaving bulky items on the kerb. In most Irish councils, this isn’t an approved disposal method and can result in fines.

  🚫 Putting bulky waste in household bins – not only will it not fit, but it’s unfair on collectors and contaminates recycling.

  ✅ Calling ahead if you need help unloading at a civic site.

  ✅ Breaking down items where possible to save space and make transport easier.

   

  Why Smart Bulk Waste Management Matters (Beyond Your Home)

  Smart disposal is about more than clearing space. Effective bulky waste management:

  • Supports recycling targets
  • Reduces landfill waste
  • Saves resources by keeping materials in circulation
  • Supports community reuse and charity efforts

  Together, these impact Ireland’s environmental goals – and your local area – in a positive way.

   

  Better Bulk Waste Habits Start Here

  Managing bulky waste doesn’t have to be confusing or wasteful. With a little planning, some creative reuse, and the right drop‑off strategy, you can make a big difference – for your home and the planet.

  Ready to make bulky waste disposal easier?

  Sign up with Barna Recycling today for priority access to sites, reminders and waste‑management support. 

   

   

• • Ims Marketing
  • Dec 16, 2025

  How Cold Weather Affects Your Bins (And What You Can Do About It)

  

  Winter in Connacht has a habit of keeping us on our toes. One day it’s heavy rain, the next a hard frost, with the odd cold snap thrown in for good measure. While we’re keeping warm indoors, our bins are left to face the elements outside, and that can lead to a few seasonal frustrations.

  From food waste freezing solid in your brown bin, to rain-soaked bins that feel twice as heavy after the Christmas clear-out, winter can make everyday waste management a little more challenging. The good news? A few small changes to your routine can make a big difference.

  Below, we’ve rounded up some of the most common winter bin issues and shared simple, practical tips to help keep things running smoothly right through the colder months.

  Frozen Food Waste in the Brown Bin

  When temperatures drop, food waste can easily freeze to the bottom or sides of your brown bin. Items like peelings, leftovers, tea bags and coffee grounds are especially prone to sticking, making bins difficult to empty on collection day.

  To help prevent freezing:

  • Line the bottom of your brown bin with cardboard, newspaper or a few sheets of used paper. This creates a barrier and helps stop waste from sticking.
  • Wrap wetter food waste in paper or compostable caddy liners before adding it to the bin.
  • Keep your brown bin in a sheltered spot if you can, such as beside the house or under a porch.

  Rain-Soaked, Heavy Bins

  Winter rain can quickly add extra weight to your general and recycling bins, particularly if lids are left open. Wet contents are not only heavier to move, but they can also make it harder for bins to empty properly during collection.

  Keep your bins lighter and easier to manage by:

  • Making sure lids are fully closed at all times. If wind is an issue, a simple weight can help keep them shut.
  • Removing bin lock or straps. We would request these are not on the bins when presented for collection. Bin locks or bin straps that have loose straps that could potentially get caught in the lifting mechanism on the trucks or more importantly could get caught on our crews clothing and cause an injury.
  • Avoiding overfilling. Bins packed too tightly may not empty fully.
  • Breaking down cardboard and packaging to save space, but without compacting materials too much.

  Should you have additional waste to dispose of, such as extra bags or cardboard boxes, please make sure you let the office know beforehand.

  

  Smelly Bins in Cold Weather? It Happens!

  It’s a common myth that bin odours are only a summer problem. In winter, reduced airflow and extra moisture can still lead to unpleasant smells – especially in compost bins.

  To keep things fresher:

  • Add dry materials like shredded paper or cardboard to your brown bin to absorb moisture and balance food waste.
  • Rinse your kitchen caddy regularly, particularly if you’re disposing of meat or dairy scraps.
  • Give your bins a quick rinse between collections using a simple vinegar and water solution to stay on top of odours.

  Be Weather-Wise on Collection Days

  Frosty mornings, storms or icy conditions can sometimes make collections more challenging or cause delays. A little care when putting bins out helps keep everyone safe.

  Please remember to:

  • Place your bin somewhere accessible, away from icy patches or parked cars.
  • Avoid putting bins out too early the night before if frost is forecast.
  • Check our website for service updates during periods of extreme weather.
  • If you have purchased a bin lock or straps, we would request these are not on the bins when presented for collection. Bin locks or bin straps that have loose straps that could potentially get caught in the lifting mechanism on the trucks or more importantly could get caught on our crews clothing and cause an injury.

  Bonus Tip: Winter-Proof Your Bin Hygiene Routine

  Winter is a great time for a quick bin check-up. Give your bins a rinse, look out for cracks or damaged lids, and make sure you’re stocked up on compostable liners or caddy bags. A little maintenance now can save hassle later and help the rest of the season run more smoothly.

  A Smoother, Cleaner Winter Starts With the Right Bin Service

  Winter waste management does come with its own quirks, but a few thoughtful adjustments can make all the difference. Small habits add up, and they help keep your home, and Connacht, a cleaner and more pleasant place this winter.

  A reliable bin service makes all the difference during the colder months. With regular collections, clear guidance and local support you can count on, Barna Recycling helps take the stress out of winter waste. Whether you’re managing a busy household or simply want peace of mind when the weather turns, signing up means one less thing to worry about this winter.

  Not yet a Barna Recycling customer? Sign-up here.

• • Barna Recycling
  • Nov 06, 2025

  Preparing for the Circular Economy: What Ireland’s New Waste Plan Means for You

  

  Big changes are coming to how we handle waste in Ireland, and they’re set to impact every household and business across Connacht. In 2024, Ireland launched its National Waste Management Plan for a Circular Economy (NWMCE), a comprehensive roadmap designed to shift our current linear waste habits (‘take, make, dispose’) to a more sustainable, circular model focused on reuse, repair, and recycling.

  But what exactly is a circular economy? Why does it matter to you? And how can Barna Recycling help you stay ahead of the curve?

  In this blog, we break down what the circular economy means in practical terms, outline the key changes coming down the line, and offer actionable steps you can take now to future-proof your household or business.

   

  What is a Circular Economy?

   

  At its core, a circular economy is about keeping resources in use for as long as possible. Instead of throwing things away after a single use, we reuse, repair, share, refurbish and recycle. This model reduces pressure on the environment, reduces waste, and helps create a more resilient local economy.

  For example:

  • Fixing a broken chair instead of dumping it
  • Choosing products with less packaging
  • Donating or selling unwanted goods
  • Composting food waste

  In the context of waste management, a circular economy means reducing the amount of waste we generate in the first place, improving segregation of waste streams, and increasing recycling and recovery rates.

   

  Key Points from Ireland’s New Waste Plan

   

  The new NWMCE is Ireland’s first waste management strategy that fully embraces circular economy principles. Here are some of the main goals and shifts it brings:

  1. Waste Prevention as Priority
     Prevention is now the top of the waste hierarchy. The plan encourages smarter consumption and aims to reduce waste generation by at least 10% per capita by 2030.
  2. Stricter Rules on Contamination
     Households and businesses will be held to higher standards when it comes to bin contamination. Incorrect sorting could result in rejected collections and possible charges.
  3. Mandatory Segregation for Businesses
     Starting in July 2025, all Irish businesses are required to separate organic, recyclable, and general waste correctly, with fines for non-compliance.
  4. Focus on Reuse & Repair
     New infrastructure and funding will support repair hubs, swap shops, and reuse initiatives across the regions.
  5. Producer Responsibility Expansion
     Brands will need to take more responsibility for the full life cycle of their products and packaging.
  6. Local Authority Action Plans
     Every county and city must develop local Circular Economy Action Plans. This includes Galway, Mayo, Roscommon, and the surrounding areas.

   

  

  What Does This Mean for You?

   

  Whether you’re a homeowner or a small business, the new waste plan brings both responsibility and opportunity.

  For Households:

  • Expect more guidance and checks on how you sort your waste
  • Take advantage of local repair cafes and swap events
  • Be mindful when buying: choose durable, repairable products
  • Be aware of good and bad packaging for recycling or reuse when making purchases
  • Compost food waste at home or use your brown bin properly

  For Businesses:

  • Review your waste segregation systems now
  • Train staff on correct waste sorting practices
  • Prepare for documentation requirements
  • Consider reusable packaging or take-back schemes

   

  How Barna Recycling Can Help

   

  As Connacht’s leading waste management provider, Barna Recycling is ready to support households and businesses as they transition to a circular economy.

  • Expert Advice: Our team can guide you through compliance with the new rules
  • Education Resources: We provide bin labels and flyers for schools and businesses
  • Collection Services: From brown bin support to recycling pickups, we help you segregate properly
  • Reuse & Recovery Focus: We’re investing in systems that prioritise waste prevention and material recovery

  We’re committed to supporting Connacht communities in reducing waste and creating a more circular, sustainable region.

   

  Start Today for a Greener Tomorrow

   

  The shift to a circular economy won’t happen overnight, but every small step counts. Whether it’s fixing a toaster instead of tossing it or teaching your children to recycle right, the change begins at home and in the workplace.

  Don’t wait until the new rules catch you off guard. Partner with Barna Recycling today to stay ahead and make a positive impact on our local environment.

  Ready to take action? Sign up now for Barna Recycling services and start your journey towards a circular lifestyle.