Blog

Small, Simple Changes For An Eco-Friendly Bathroom

In a world that’s increasingly aware of its environmental impact, the concept of an eco-friendly bathroom has gained substantial traction. When it comes to creating an eco-friendlier space, we find that bathroom waste often gets overlooked. On the daily, however, we all use toiletries, personal care items and bathroom cleaners, which means our bathroom is packed with recyclables! 
 
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. 

It is extremely important that you know how and where to dispose of your bathroom waste correctly. Below we have outlined some practical tips and techniques for maintaining a low-waste, eco-friendly bathroom and reducing household waste disposal.

Clearing Chaos: Declutter for an Eco-Friendly Bathroom

Firstly, I am sure you will agree with us when we say: ‘fewer bathroom products, less waste produced’. Reducing bathroom waste is a great place to start when it comes to building an eco-friendly bathroom. We invite you to practise two sustainable habits:

1. Frequently dedicate time to reorganise and rearrange all your cosmetics, toiletries, and personal care items. This will enable you to identify exactly what you need, what you use regularly, how often such items require replacement or replenishment.
2. Dispose of bathroom items that you do no longer need and those that have expired. We are all guilty (from time to time) of leaving bathroom cleaner products and toiletries in the bathroom, untouched for weeks and months, even when they no longer serve us a purpose.

Craft Your Eco-Friendly Bathroom By Making Conscious Choices 

Many cosmetics, toiletries, and even toothpaste tubes often come with excessive plastic packaging and cardboard boxes, including those that claim they are eco-friendly products. Try to avoid purchasing these heavily-packaged products if you wish to create a planet-friendly bathroom and reduce your household waste disposal. Instead, we advise you to:

• Opt for products that come with sustainable, biodegradable, or compostable packaging materials, corrugated bubble wrap, biodegradable foam beads and more.
• When bathroom products are packaged in reusable boxes or bubble wrap, it is always eco-friendly to find a new purpose (a new use) for such bathroom packaging where possible.

Use Biodegradable Products

• • Think ‘biodegradable’ – Looking to reduce your plastic disposal? Instead of tossing out used plastic combs or brushes, make the switch to a biodegradable bamboo or wooden toothbrush/hairbrushes. Wooden and bamboo care products have become stylish and trendy in 2024, and these all-natural, biodegradable products retail in most shops.
  • Ditch the plastics – Switch to using soap bars and shampoo bars to eliminate the use of plastic bottles completely, dramatically reducing household waste disposal of plastic. Ditching the plastics will also save you money in the long term, as these eco-friendly sanitary bars are cheaper than the liquid soap, shampoos and shower gels that come in non-recyclable plastic pumps. 
  • Rinse & repeat – When it comes to makeup removal or skincare application, cotton pads are being used and discarded after single use. Rather than using numerous cotton pads, switch to using washable cotton which can be cleaned with your regular laundry and restored to its fresh form. It’s great to see several make-up brands in the cosmetics industry (including multinational Boots) now rewarding their customers for recycling used beauty and hygiene products.
  • Go organic – To play your eco-friendly part when washing your hands, seek organic, palm oil-free soaps. These soaps come in compostable packaging, are made from 100% natural ingredients. This means they have no link to animal cruelty as they do not undergo animal testing, a thought you will be proud to bear each time you go to wash your hands. 

Transform with Recycling 

Are you looking for smart ways to have an eco-friendly bathroom and reduce household waste? The good news is that a LOT of your bathroom waste items are recyclable, even though only 50% of us are actually recycling them according to Hubbub (2023). Here is a list of some common bathroom products that can (and should) be recycled: 

• Shampoo, conditioner & shower gel bottles
• Toilet roll tubes
• Hand soap bottles (reuse or remove the pump dispenser as you cannot recycle it) 
• Cardboard boxes, e.g., toothpaste or soap boxes 
• Bathroom cleaner and bleach bottles 
• Deodorant lids 

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). 

All items being recycled must be clean, dry, and loose. Be sure to rinse out any bottles and containers before putting them in the recycling bin. Check out What Goes in My Blue Bin if you are unsure about what items that you can recycle. 

Go Green With Barna Recycling

Barna Recycling is 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.

Best Ways to Get Rid of Garden Waste (Everything You Need to Know)

Summer is finally here, and so is the opportunity for you to get those gardens and patios summer all ready. Want to find out the best ways to get rid of garden waste? We’ll tell you everything you need to know, from where you can dispose of garden waste to where to recycle it.

With the temperatures climbing and the promise of bright sunny days ahead, our reliance on our outdoor spaces is likely to be a big part of our lives over the next weeks (and months – fingers crossed!).

So, why not take the opportunity to revamp your outdoor space and tidy up your garden? Whether you’re planning parties with friends or simply enjoying family time, it’s important to consider and understand what garden waste items are recyclable and how best to dispose of them.

In this blog, we’ll look at the best ways to effectively get rid of garden waste while minimising its impact on the environment.

What is ‘Green’ Garden Waste?

The term “green” garden waste refers to organic materials generated from routine maintenance activities. Proper garden waste management is not only necessary for a well-kept landscape, but it’s also a contributor to environmental sustainability. ‘Green’ garden waste is biodegradable, which means that it can be broken down by natural processes, and consists of:

• Plant trimmings and pruning
• Lawn clippings
• Leaves and twigs
• Flower cuttings and deadheads
• Vegetable and fruit scraps

Reusing and recycling green waste can bring a number of benefits:

1. Composting provides you with a valuable soil fertiliser.
2. Reduces disposal costs while also creating a valuable, usable product.
3. It is a natural method of processing material which would otherwise be landfilled.

However, cleaning up your garden may also generate waste items that are not considered ‘green’; therefore, they cannot be composted:

• Stones or gravel
• Concrete
• Dirt or rocks
• Animal waste
• Treated or painted wood
• Glass
• Metal
• Soil

Best Ways to Get Rid of Each Type of Garden Waste

Green Garden Waste Disposal and Where to Recycle Garden Waste

Understanding and effectively managing green garden waste is crucial for maintaining a healthy garden and promoting environmental sustainability. We have listed disposal options for you to consider when doing a garden waste clearance:

• Composting at home is probably the best method of garden waste disposal. It is a fantastic way to get the final use of your organic garden waste since compost is rich in nutrients and great for your garden, shrubs, or even indoor plants. Here is a helpful guide to get you started on composting.
• Grass Recycling. When mowing the grass in your lawn, you can choose to leave the grass clippings on the ground to decompose naturally. Once on the ground, the grass clippings become dry and decompose quicker, returning valuable nutrients like nitrogen back into the soil.
• Brown Waste Bin. You can also dispose of your green garden waste by putting it in your brown bin. See our blog post on organic waste management and what can go into the brown bin.
• Civic Amenity Sites. Alternatively, you can bring large volumes of your green garden waste to our Ballinasloe, Carrowbrowne and Cartrontroy Athlone recycling centres.

Garden Chemicals & Liquids Waste Clearance

Garden chemicals and liquid waste would include weed killers, petrol/fuel for your lawnmower, pesticides and herbicides, fertilisers, and some plant foods. It is essential to store and dispose of these items correctly since some of them can be hazardous and very harmful to the environment. Always follow the instructions on the product label. Here are some best practices you can implement when doing your waste clearance. Not only will you witness a thriving landscape, but you will also make a positive impact on the environment.

• Always try to use Garden Chemicals in full as opposed to having to dispose of leftovers. Be sure to get in-store advice on how much you need beforehand so that you are only buying as much as you need and not overstocking/overusing.
• While purchasing these items, consider the recyclability of the packaging and see if environmentally friendly alternatives are available.
• When storing these items, be sure to retain all original packaging and labelling, so you are aware of any expiry or use-by dates. This will assist in disposing of the item correctly.
• ALWAYS remember that liquids of any kind should NOT be included in your general waste bin.
• ALWAYS remember NOT to mix chemicals for disposal under any circumstances, no matter how small the quantity. This can lead to the emission of toxic gases, which can be highly lethal and could lead to hospitalisation.
• Alternatively, you can also check with your local civic amenity sites to see if they accept chemical items as part of their hazardous waste services. Please be sure to check our website for the complete list of items accepted at your nearest centre.
• If the civic amenity site cannot take the item, contact a specialist hazardous waste company that may collect the item from you directly.

Old Swing Sets and Garden Furniture Disposal

If you have an old garden swing or garden furniture that is still in working condition, you can consider selling it, passing it on to someone else, or donating it to local charity shops. You can bring them to your nearest local civic amenity site if they require disposal. Most wood, metal, and plastic furniture are all widely accepted and recycled at civic amenity sites.

Check out Barna Recycling’s list of civic amenity sites here.

Why Not Consider Hiring a Skip for Garden Waste?

If you have large volumes of garden waste or are undertaking bigger garden projects where you are completely redoing your lawn, landscaping, cutting or removing hedging, then hiring a skip would be the right option for you.

You can order a skip by calling our skip team on 091-771619 or enquiring through our website, where you can see the sizes available.

With Barna Recycling, You Can Say Goodbye to Clutter

Recycling garden waste materials promotes sustainability and reduces landfill waste. Utilising Barna Recycling’s civic amenity sites and applying our top tips on the best ways to get rid of garden waste can ensure responsible waste management while promoting environmental stewardship and maintaining the beauty of your outdoor space.

Not a Barna Recycling customer yet? Join us today!

Did you find this article helpful? Why not share with your family and friends? Use the links below to share this content on your Facebook or Twitter.

Wardrobe Revamp: How to Dispose of Old Clothes

The beginning of summer is usually that time of the year when you open your wardrobe and start looking for lighter clothes that have been hidden for a long time. It’s also when one might realise that their wardrobe desperately needs a revamp, so it’s time to reorganise the bedroom and make room for the new. And it’s usually after making a pile of old clothing that you’re faced with the question: how to dispose of old clothes in Ireland? What to do with unwanted textiles?

Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered!

Here at Barna Recycling, we often find our customers wondering what to do with clothes that are old/no longer fit and textiles that have already seen their share of wear & tear. There are plenty of sustainable ways to repurpose, recycle and dispose of old clothes in Ireland, and we have a list of top tips that will help you decide the best way to dispose of your old textiles.

5 Key Tips on How to Dispose of Old Clothes

According to research, the average volume per person in the Apparel market has been increasing and is projected to be 75.7 pieces in 2024. Therefore, by correctly disposing of your clothing and unwanted textile items, you are playing your part to make for a cleaner, greener environment. Here are five precious tips to give you insights on how to dispose of your old clothes.

1. Shopping Smart To Reduce Clothing Disposal

It all starts with a change in habits because the smarter you shop, the less you waste. It’s important to understand that the textile industry is the second largest contributor to global pollution (Source: mywaste.ie). Every piece of clothing you wear or use has undergone a complex manufacturing process that uses high electricity, water, and other energy sources.

Recycling and upcycling unwanted textiles saves energy by reducing or eliminating the need to make materials from scratch. So, before you purchase a new piece of clothing, shoes, etc., always ask yourself, ‘Do I need it, and will I wear it?’.

2. Pass/Swap/Hand Them Down

Before you decide to dispose of or recycle the clothes and textiles you no longer use or wear, consider passing them on to a friend or family member if they might be interested. Remember to be honest about any damage and wash the clothes before you pass them along. Research shows that second-hand clothing is growing and will represent around 27% of the apparel market share by 2027. There are several online platforms that allow you to swap or re-sell your clothing, such as Depop and Thriftify to name just a few options available.

Alternatively, you can also see if your friends and colleagues are up for swapping a few items. Invite them over for a few drinks and get the party started. This way, you are giving your clothes a new life, and everyone goes home happy with some new pieces they can add to their wardrobe for free!

3. Donate to Charity

You can also donate clothes and unwanted textiles in good condition to local charity shops, as non-profits and charities would often be extremely grateful for your donation. Over 10 million garments per annum are handled via charity or second-hand shops. Using charity shops often means the sales from the clothing benefit causes in your local area or community.

Enable Ireland, Oxfam, Society of St Vincent de Paul (SVP), and Liberty Recycling are some of the organisations accepting clothing donations. The Charity Retail Ireland website will help you to find your nearest charity shops & clothing banks near you.

4. Transform & Upcycle

You can transform clothes that are damaged, stained/have holes into new items such as face masks, tablecloths, cleaning cloths, blankets, padding for chairs, bags, t-shirts, and so much more! All it takes is a little creativity and vision. You can check out Pinterest or some DIY YouTube videos for inspiration.

5. Civic Amenity Sites and Recycling Centres

If you feel you cannot do any of the above with large volumes of old, unwanted textiles, you can always bring them to your local civic amenity site or clothing banks near you. Some of our civic amenity sites will also accept any clothing, footwear, textiles, including blankets at selected civic amenity sites. However, an extra charge would apply for disposing of bedding and mattresses.

BONUS: 6. Barna Recycling Top Tips

As the number one environmentally friendly waste collection provider, we have put together a list with valuable extra tips to help you with disposing of old clothes and textiles:

• Consider the charity shops’ big advantage – not only are the clothes reused and not treated as waste, but they also help provide financial assistance to a particular charity.
• Familiarise yourself with other items charity shops may take for upcycling or re-selling – such as household goods, books, electrical items, etc. Not all of these shops are dedicated only to clothes.
• Help the charity by purchasing something on the same journey – when dropping off clothes, always have a look at what’s for resale.
• Bedclothes and duvets are not always accepted by all charities. Check-in in advance of travelling.
• Point out clothes that are heavily soiled or damaged—although they can still be taken to some banks, this should be checked in advance.
• Old clothing not able to be reused can still be put to good use by being shredded and reused for things such as furniture stuffing.

Where Can I Dispose of my Clothes?

Barna Recycling has five Recycling Centres across Co. Galway, where you can dispose of all types of non-hazardous and recyclable material.

To learn more about the types of waste material accepted and any charges that may apply, choose one of our locations and click on ‘view accepted items’. Please note waste items accepted may vary depending on location.

Not a Barna Recycling customer yet? Switch to Barna Recycling today and save!

What Goes In The General Waste Bin?

Spring has finally come, and we can’t wait for the first glimpses of summer. If you are like us, you would agree when we say now is the perfect time to declutter and organise your homes inside out for the summer months. However, as you declutter your home, you might often wonder which waste items from your home clear out go in the general waste bin and which items cannot be disposed of as general waste.

To help you get your home ready for summer, we have outlined a few tips and key information about what goes in the general waste bin. We have also outlined where to dispose of items that can’t be put in a general waste bin and how to dispose of other oversized items that won’t fit in your household bins.

Why Is General Waste Disposal Management Important?

Proper general waste handling, collection, transportation, and disposal aims at minimising the adverse impacts of waste on the environment, public health, and safety. Understanding the importance of effective waste management is crucial for ensuring sustainable development and preserving natural resources.

What Goes In The General Waste Bin?

Generally, the black bin is for any waste items that you CANNOT put into your recycling or organic bins. It’s also important to remember NOT to include any kind of liquids in your general waste bin and ensure you separate the packaging to segregate out the food waste and recyclable materials such as envelopes, milk cartons, and newspapers. This way, you are saving costs, maximising space, and making sure that you are not overloading your general waste bin.

The waste in your black bin is collected by Barna Recycling and processed to recover any recyclables. The remaining non-recyclable fraction is then sent for landfill disposal with energy recovery.

Correct Waste Disposal: See a List Of General Waste Items

In general, most non-recyclable and non-organic waste go into the general waste bin. However, there are exceptions, items that don’t go in any of the three bins and, therefore, should be properly disposed of at civic amenities. See a list of items that can go in the general waste bin:

• Nappies
• Ashes**
• Tin Foil
• Aero board
• Contaminated & Wet Paper
• Non-recyclable plastic
• Food wrappers

**When disposing of ashes in your general waste bin, ensure you place the ashes in a bag first. There are two critical reasons for this:

1. Hot ashes are the number one reason a bin can catch on fire. So, placing the ashes in a bag will help you determine whether they are cool enough to be placed in the bin.
2. It keeps the bin and the truck from getting dirty with loose ashes, which could also dirty other householders’ bins. Moreover, on windy days, the ashes can be blown over and dirty the area.

Items Not To Go Into Your General Waste Bin

• Paint cans – You can bring them to a local Civic Amenity Site
• Clothes – Clothes can’t go in your waste bin but can be brought to a clothes bank or charity shop.
• IT equipment and electrical goods—More commonly referred to as WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment), all electrical goods retailers must be registered as producers of WEEE and will take back your old electrical equipment free of charge when you buy new goods.
• Batteries—You can bring used batteries back to shops. Many supermarkets have drop-off points for recycling batteries.
• Glass – Should be washed and brought to your nearest bottle bank.
• Duvets – Can’t be disposed of in your waste bin, but they can be brought to your local Civic Amenity Site.
• Bulky waste items – Old furniture, couches, mattresses, tables, and large household appliances that have seen the end of their useable life can be brought to a local civic amenity site near you.

Disposing Of Large Items That Can’t Be Put In Your General Waste Bin

You can consider hiring a skip for larger items that can’t be disposed of in your general waste bin, which makes decluttering your homes much easier. At Barna Recycling, we have skips of all sizes, so you can be sure we’ll have one to suit your needs and the space available to you – check out our handy skip sizing guide here.

Benefits of hiring a Skip

Here are the top 3 benefits of hiring a Skip to dispose of large items:

• You can keep the skip as long as you require it.
• You have the convenience of not having to take large, awkward items in your car to the Civic Amenity Site.
• If you are a Barna Recycling customer, you can get a discount if you order a skip from us. All you need is to have your Barna Recycling Account number handy.

Items that can’t go in a skip are as follows:

• Hazardous Waste: A significant rule that is often forgotten is that hazardous waste should not go in a skip. It can leak and contaminate other recyclable materials.
• Asbestos: If asbestos is found during a renovation project or a home clearout, it must be dealt with by a team of specialists and not put into a general skip.
• Appliances: Other items that we find cause great confusion are electrical items, especially large household items. Refrigerators, freezers, microwaves & cookers should not go in a skip but instead be brought to a Civic Amenity Site.
• Oil or paint cans & tyres
• Solvents, fuels and batteries
• Chemicals, flammable materials
• Household waste includes food scraps, soiled nappies, and sanitary items.
• Liquid Concrete

Find out where your nearest recycling centres might be located. If you have any questions on skip hire, do not hesitate to contact a member of our skip hire team on 091 771619.

Barna’s Top 3 Tips For More Efficient And Effective Bulk Waste Disposal

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, Ireland generated 3.17 million tonnes of municipal waste in 2021 and recycled 41 per cent of it. “Municipal waste” accounts for waste types such as residual, recyclable, and bulk.

Here, “bulk” refers to large waste items that are also considered bulky waste. These are items that cannot fit in your general waste bins (e.g., furniture, bedding) and always tend to take up too much space in your home. Here at Barna Recycling, we’re often asked by customers what to do about bulky item disposal.

To give you an idea of how to manage these items, we’ve pulled together top three tips that you can implement today. These will help you get rid of large items and put in place a more efficient and effective bulk waste disposal process.

What is an Example of Bulky Waste?

Bulk waste disposal can be confusing when you’re unsure about what’s considered part of this waste category. So, first, let’s have a look at some of the common items:

• Couches
• Chairs
• Tables
• Mattress

Interesting fact: Around eighty percent (80%) of most mattress’ components can be recycled

• Old furniture, such as wardrobes and bed frames
• Large household appliances, such as fridges, freezers, washing machines and dishwashers
• TVs

Top 3 Tips For Bulk Waste Disposal

Tip 1: Why not try Upcycling?

Upcycled furniture, or any other “upcycled” item, is when you reuse an item in a way that adds quality or value. So, if you’re still in love with your old furniture and want to get the maximum use out of it, you could always try to upcycle them where possible to create something entirely new.

Upcycling is also a nice way to spend your weekends as it gets your creative juices flowing. Besides, chances are you could end up creating something spectacular that you can advertise to sell and make some money.

Need some more convincing? Check out MyWaste.ie’s video content around upcycling and selling items.

Tip 2: Donate to Charity

Before you dispose of your bulky waste, assess whether it’s in good enough condition to donate to a local charity. There are several charities around the country that are willing to collect old but clean and functional furniture from your home and bring it to those in need. The Irish Charity Shops Association website will help you find the nearest charity shops near you.

Be sure to check in advance if the charity shop accepts furniture and large items.

Tip 3: Civic Amenity Sites

A question we often receive is: “How do you properly dispose of waste?” Well, if your bulky item has seen the end of its useable life, and you feel the only feasible option is to dispose of it, you can always bring it to your local civic amenity site near you. However, an extra charge applies for the disposal of old beds and mattresses.

A member of the Barna Recycling team will meet you on arrival at the civic amenity site to identify the contents you want to dispose of. Our experienced and helpful staff will advise you and direct you towards where the materials should be put on site.

On some days and at some sites, there are people to help you with the unloading of materials, but this isn’t always the case. If you need help, you can always give us a ring to let us know in advance, and a member of our team will be happy to assist you.

Remember, we also accept Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) free of charge. For more info on how to correctly dispose of WEEE, click here.

What are 10 Ways to Reduce Waste at Home?

Looking for ways to reduce waste at home? Try these 10 options:

1. Deter from buying single-use items
2. Use less water
3. Bulk buy items where possible
4. Reduce food waste
5. Donate unwanted furniture
6. Dispose of electronics responsibly
7. Go paperless
8. Turn to sustainable fashion
9. Embrace the second-hand economy
10. Educate others

Efficient And Effective Bulk Waste Disposal With Barna Recycling

Get the most out of your visit to our civic amenity sites and make your bulk waste disposal more efficient by planning ahead.

See more information about our Civic Amenity Sites and view the list of items they accept.

2024 Hacks: Mastering Household Waste Disposal

As we step into 2024, mastering household waste disposal is not just a responsible choice but a necessity for a sustainable future. Understanding the different types of waste streams is the first step towards successful household waste management. Waste classification into organic, recyclable, and non-recyclable components sets the foundation for effective disposal techniques.

What is considered household waste?

The waste produced in households, and similar waste produced by businesses, is also called municipal waste or Municipal Solid Waste (MSW). Household waste is a diverse category encompassing general, recyclable, and organic waste collected directly at kerbside and back door, or brought to waste collection centres like bring banks, civic amenity sites, and pay-to-use compactors.

According to Ireland’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) last report, in 2021, out of a substantial 1.84 million tonnes of household waste that were generated in the state, 1.81 million tonnes was managed. However, an estimated 25,700 tonnes remained unmanaged, emphasising the need for continued investments in waste management solutions to address this issue.

Although MSW accounts for just around 10% of total waste generated across the EU, it is difficult to manage since it comprises several streams, including general waste, mixed dry recycling, and organic waste, as well as a high number of producers.

Disposing of household waste

Every household is entitled to a general and a recycling bin from a waste collector. If a customer lives in an area of 500 people or more, they are entitled to general, recycling and organic waste bins. Waste collection providers usually have a colour-coded system for separating household waste. At Barna Recycling, for example, we have black, blue, and brown bins.

• See what goes in your Black Bin (General waste)
• See what goes in your Blue Bin (Recycling waste)
• See what goes in your Brown Bin (Organic waste)

Even though bins are colour-coded and customers are provided with information regarding household waste disposal management, contamination of bins is still a big issue, with recent Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) figures indicating that 20% of the material in household recycling bins should not be there, and significant 70% of the material in general waste bins from the commercial sector should be in recycling or organic bins.

This translates into a substantial loss of resource value—a costly oversight for both households and businesses. However, proper waste segregation can be the solution to lower waste charges and safeguard investments in local treatment capabilities.

TIP: Ensure you maximise the space in your bins by breaking down waste before you put it in. This is especially important for the recycling bin. Cardboard boxes and packaging can quickly take up a lot of space, so be sure to break down bulkier items. Remember that overflowing bins or items left out beside your bins may not be taken away.

**If your bin is overflowing well in advance of your collection day, call the Barna Customer Care Team on 091 771619 to discuss your options. 

How to dispose of household hazardous waste?

Embarking on the journey of proper household waste disposal begins with a critical first step – the identification of hazardous waste lurking within the confines of your home. Everyday items take on a hazardous identity, the most common being pesticides, batteries, fluorescent light bulbs, paints, solvents, and various cleaning agents.

The key is not just recognition but the meticulous segregation of these potentially harmful materials. You can either find a local drop-off location like our Civic Amenity Centres – see items accepted – or, depending on the case, bring the item back to the place where it was purchased. You can also check EPA’s guide to hazardous waste prevention.

Some hazardous items include:

• Waste Paint/ Paint Thinners/ Strippers
• White Spirit Creosotes
• Adhesives/Glues
• Aerosols Waste
• Antifreeze/Coolants
• Bleaches
• Chemicals with Identification Labels
• Cleaning Agents
• Detergents
• Engine Oils
• Epoxy Resins
• Herbicides/ Pesticides
• Medicines
• Pharmacy Waste
• Silicones

TIP: Since batteries cannot be disposed of at home, you must bring them back to the place where they were purchased or to a Civic Amenity Site. Electrical items such as chargers also need to be disposed of correctly. They need to be returned to where they were purchased or should be brought to a WEEE drop-off recycling point or your local Civic Amenity Site to be disposed of. Learn more about how to dispose of WEEE the right way.

Household waste recycling centres

A recycling centre, also known as civic amenity site, is an EPA-licensed drive-in facility fully equipped and designed to recycle a wide range of household products. These facilities take bagged household waste, food waste, and bulky items, such as furniture, for disposal.

Not all types of hazardous waste are accepted in these centres, so for details on the types of waste material accepted and any charges that may apply you should check with the waste collection provider.

You can learn more about Barna Recycling’s Recycling Centres here.

Ready to master household waste disposal and lower your costs with waste management In 2024?

Mastering household waste disposal in 2024 goes beyond individual actions—it’s about embracing a holistic approach that also entails conscious consumer choices, including a waste collection provider that helps you navigate the challenges of waste management for a more sustainable future.

Barna Recycling is Connacht’s leading provider of waste management services, providing a professional, reliable and environmentally friendly service. Join Ireland’s number one environmentally friendly waste collection provider and enjoy the peace of mind that we will recycle what you throw away.

References:

Household Waste Statistics for Ireland, Environmental Protection Agency. https://www.epa.ie/our-services/monitoring–assessment/waste/national-waste-statistics/household/#:~:text=Household%20waste%20includes%20general%20waste,pay%2Dto%2Duse%20compactors.

A Waste Action Plan for a Circular Economy – Ireland’s National Waste Policy 2020-2025, Government of Ireland. https://www.gov.ie/pdf/?file=https://assets.gov.ie/86647/dcf554a4-0fb7-4d9c-9714-0b1fbe7dbc1a.pdf#page=null

Christmas Recycling Facts and Top 4 Tips To Reduce Waste this Holiday Season

As the festive season approaches, the spirit of giving and celebration is accompanied by a surge in consumption, where waste volumes increase due to more grocery shopping, the giving and receiving of gifts, decorations and more. This blog explores Christmas recycling facts and practical tips on how to reduce waste during the most awaited time of the year.

Christmas Recycling Facts We Bet You Didn’t Know

Here are some interesting Christmas recycling facts you should know:

• If a household reuses a plastic tree for up to five years, its carbon footprint will be smaller than a household that buys a real tree every year.
• One ton of recycled Christmas cards can save 15 trees.
• At Christmas time, we use over 1,100 tonnes of wrapping paper, enough to gift wrap the Spire in Dublin over 10 times.
• +30 Million Batteries are sold over Christmas.

Barna Recycling’s Top 4 Tips To Reduce Waste This Holiday Season

1. Recycle Your Christmas Tree

Real Christmas trees can easily be recycled or shredded into chippings and used in parkland areas. Artificial Christmas trees cannot be recycled but can be reused and donated to family, friends, or a local charity shop. If these are not possible, another alternative would be to bring your artificial Christmas trees to a civic amenity site to dispose of. Find your nearest civic amenity site here.

Where to Recycle Christmas Trees?

An artificial Christmas tree is seen as a bulky waste item. It can be brought to your local civic amenity site (except our civic amenity site in Clifden) to be disposed of. Our civic amenity sites will also accept real Christmas trees. Find out more ways on how you can recycle or replant your Christmas tree.

2. Reusing & Recycling Christmas Decorations and Baubles

Recycling Christmas decorations is another effective way of reducing waste. When taking down your decorations, some items may be broken and need to be disposed of. Often items that are deemed to be single-use items can be used again, so before you dispose of everything, take a minute to think if this could be used again next year. It is best to sort through your decorations as you are taking them down.

You can also embrace the beauty of sustainability by choosing decorations that can be reused year after year. Invest in timeless pieces made from durable materials, reducing the need for constant repurchase. When the time comes to refresh your decor, ensure that the materials are recyclable, contributing to a cyclical and eco-conscious festive aesthetic.

3. Mindful Gifting & Christmas Cards

In the quest for the perfect present and Christmas cards, consider options with a minimal ecological impact. Opt for items made from recycled materials and sustainable resources. Another way to reduce waste is by recycling your Christmas cards. It is safe to place the holiday cards you received in your home recycling bin. Any plastic, paper or cardboard design materials are recyclable. However, these may not be recyclable if the card contains glitter or any bulky designs.

4. Saving on Wrapping paper

Try and save any reusable pieces of wrapping paper and store them safely for next year. Save any gift bags that can be used again next year too. But be sure to take off any name tags from the bag!

Besides, stepping away from conventional wrapping paper gives you the chance to explore eco-friendly alternatives. Cloth wraps, reusable gift bags, or even repurposed newspapers can add a touch of creativity while minimizing the environmental strain of single use wrapping paper. Elevate your gift presentation without compromising on sustainability.

EXTRA TIP: Keep An Eye For Batteries and Chargers

Batteries and chargers are considered hazardous waste but are still important components for controllers and children’s toys. Since they cannot be disposed of at home, you must bring them back to where they were purchased or to a civic amenity site. Electrical items such as chargers also need to be disposed of correctly. They need to be returned to where they were purchased or brought to a WEEE drop-off recycling point or your local Civic Amenity Site to be disposed of. Click here for more information on how to dispose of WEEE the right way.

Using Your Household Bins To Dispose of Your Christmas Waste

Boxes

Ensure you maximise the space in your bins by breaking down waste before you put it in. This is especially important for the recycling bin. Cardboard boxes and packaging can quickly take up a lot of space, so be sure to break down bulkier items. Remember that overflowing bins or items left out beside your bins may not be taken away.

As a safety precaution, we always advise our customers not to leave boxes of expensive items, such as new TVs or game consoles, beside their bins, as this may encourage theft. If you do not have space for such boxes, bring them to your local civic amenity site or store them in a shed or garage until you have sufficient room to put them in your bin.

Christmas Cards and Wrapping Paper

When disposing of wrapping paper, the most important thing is to note that not all paper is recyclable. Any wrapping paper containing glitter, foil, or tape will have to go in the waste bin. Similarly, for Christmas cards with excess glitter, ribbons or homemade cards that contain glue must go in the general waste bin. In the case of ribbons, you can also save it and reuse it again for wrapping presents next year.

Christmas Decorations

Items such as tinsel that can’t be used again can be placed in the general waste bin. Fresh wreaths can be put into your compost bin once you take off any non-compostable materials. Broken glass baubles need to be brought to the bottle bank, and lights and electrical appliances that no longer work can be brought to a WEE disposal site. Please note that any electrical items that contain a battery must also have the batteries removed before being disposed of or for safety reasons. Any decorations wholly made of metal should be brought to your local civic amenity site.

If your bin is overflowing well in advance of your collection day, call the Barna Customer Care Team on 091 771619 to discuss your options.

Lower Your Costs With Waste Management In 2024

Barna is Connacht’s leading provider of waste management services, providing a professional, reliable, and environmentally friendly service. Join Ireland’s number one environmentally friendly waste collection provider and enjoy the peace of mind that w

Sorting All Types of Domestic Waste: A Must for Clear-outs

Decluttering your home during the holiday season can be daunting, especially when you’re unsure how or where to dispose of the different types of domestic waste.

From clearing out the massive mess in the shed and old clutter in the attic and sorting out all the unused clothing, old blankets, and bedding to old books, now is the perfect time to deep clean your homes inside and out before the holiday season.

So, how about having a stress & mess-free holiday season? Below, we have outlined our top tips and key information to help you understand what to do with the different types of waste from your home clear out.

Understanding the Types of Domestic Waste

Efficient waste sorting is key for responsible disposal. It not only streamlines the process but also contributes significantly to environmental conservation.

General Household Waste

General household waste spans a broad spectrum, from everyday disposables to non-recyclable plastics. Recognising and categorising this waste is the first step in crafting an effective sorting strategy.

Hazardous Materials

Hazardous items can hide undiscovered among the many types of domestic waste. These pose a substantial risk to both human health and the environment. Identifying and safely disposing of such materials is imperative during clear-outs.

Electronic Waste

The digital age has given rise to a new challenge—electronic waste. Understanding the components of electronic devices and their potential environmental impact is critical for correct and safe disposal. Read our blog on electronic waste to learn more about responsible WEEE disposal.

Effective Sorting Strategies for Home Clear-outs

1. Make correct, responsible use of the designated bins.

Correctly sorting your household disposal and using the designated bins for the different types of domestic waste is the first step to ensuring an effective home clear-out. Ensure you separate hazardous materials and electronic waste.

Not sure of what goes on each bin? See what goes in each Barna Recycling bin.

2. Utilise Recycling Centres

Collaborating with local recycling centres facilitates the responsible disposal of recyclable materials. Barna Recycling’s purpose-built Civic Amenity Sites can assist you greatly when clearing out your home. With seven civic amenity sites across Connacht, we collect a large variety of non-hazardous and recyclable household waste at a reduced cost.

Here are some of the benefits of using one of Barna Recycling’s civic amenity sites.

• They are cost-effective and cheap to use.
• Accept a wide range of items, including hazardous materials.
• They are clean, local, and easily accessible.
• Open on weekends to make them more accessible to all.
• They are well laid out and marked for each waste material.
• Cater for small and large deliveries in the exact location.
• Provide WEEE and Glass Bottle services free of charge.
• Cater for small and large deliveries in the exact location.

3. Integrate Composting in Organic Waste Management

Integrating composting into household waste management significantly reduces the environmental impact of organic waste. Composting not only diverts waste from landfills but also produces nutrient-rich compost for soil enrichment.

More on Barna Recycling’s Sites: Types of Domestic Waste We Accept

Old blankets/ Bedding & Mattresses: Some of our civic amenity sites will also accept any type of clothing, footwear, or textiles, including blankets, at selected civic amenity sites. However, an extra charge would apply for disposing of bedding and mattresses.

Books: Generally, books should be placed in the household recycling bin. However, if you have a large volume of old books, phone books, newspapers, and magazines, you can dispose of them at some of our local civic amenity sites.

Electrical items: You can bring unwanted electrical waste, more commonly known as WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment), such as Computers, Monitors, Mobile Phones, Electronic Toys, Game consoles, Speakers, Headphones and electrical appliances to your local amenity site to dispose of it free of charge.

Old Swing sets and Garden Furniture: If you have an old garden swing or garden furniture still in working condition, you could consider selling it, passing it on to someone else or donating it to local charity shops. You can bring them to your nearest local civic amenity site if they require disposal. Most wood, metal, and plastic furniture are widely accepted and recycled at civic amenity sites. Read our blog on bulk waste disposal.

Need more information on where to dispose of certain items or order a skip? Give us a call today at 091 771619 or fill in our Contact Us form.

Your Guide to Effective Plastic Packaging Waste Disposal

Irish Data from 2021 shows that out of the 372,819 tonnes of plastic packaging generated, only 26,048 were recycled. Almost all remaining plastic packaging was often shipped overseas to Europe for incineration or use by energy plants. Currently, Ireland recycles less than one-third (28 per cent) of all plastic packaging waste, and reaching the recycling targets set by the EU will demand much more effort and commitment from all of us (see graphic below).

Source: https://www.epa.ie

At Barna Recycling, we have invested in technological advancements that allow us to sort, recover and dispose of different plastic materials. However, the efforts of each household are vital for correctly and efficiently managing recycling plastic packaging waste in the country. It will help put Ireland a huge step forward towards achieving the increased packaging recycling targets set by the EU.

Can You Recycle Soft Plastic in Ireland?

The answer is: Yes, you can as long as it is clean!

Soft plastic is any type of plastic that you can scrunch in your hand. Good examples of soft plastic are shrink wrap, plastic carrier bags, toilet roll wrappers, plastic bread bags, zip lock bags, and bubble wrap.

Pulling on the plastic to see if it stretches is a good indicator of whether it is soft and recyclable. This means the plastic is not laminated and can be recycled.

If the plastic doesn’t stretch, this means it’s laminated or coated and, therefore, probably not recyclable. These types of plastic are removed during our sorting process and sent for waste-to-energy recovery. Examples of non-soft plastics are foil-based packaging, netting, polystyrene or foam.

Rigid plastics, such as plastic bottles and food trays, are accepted in the recycling bin. Going forward, households can place all plastic packaging waste, including soft plastic, into the recycling bin if they’re clean, dry and loose.

Remember to place your recycling materials loose, clean, and dry into your bin. Please do not place your recycling items in a plastic bag.

You can always check What Goes in My Blue Bin if you are unsure of items that can be recycled.

Interesting Facts about Plastic

• Until 2020, Irish recycling facilities could only process rigid plastics 
• Plastic makes up 90% of the rubbish in our oceans
• Plastic production uses 8% of the world’s oil production
• Every ton of plastic recycled saves 30 barrels of crude oil
• A plastic bag takes 500 years to break down in a landfill
• Recycling 1 plastic bottle saves the same amount of energy needed to power a 60-watt light bulb for 6 hours

Did you know that many Items can be made from recycled plastic bottles?
From fleece to sleeping bags, backpacks, and dog beds, there are many useful items that can be made from plastic bottles. For example, 25 large plastic soft drink bottles will make 1 Fleece Jacket.

How Does Barna Recycling Process Work?

Our recycling process starts with you. Once your plastic waste is placed in the household recycling bin, our collection crew then collect your recycling bins on the designated day and deliver the waste materials to our EPA-licensed recycling facility. After your waste materials are delivered to our facility, we apply the following process:

• First of all, recycled items are sorted for processing on our picking line.
• The recycled waste is separated into six different categories: paper, cardboard or hard plastics, glass, aluminium & steel cans.
• Our technology also allows us to segregate soft plastics in this same way with the use of advanced optical sorting equipment.
• The recyclable plastic & cardboard waste is baled & shipped abroad to be sold and recycled in European and other markets or used by manufacturers or energy plants.

It’s About Time You Took Action

The world is waking up to climate change, pollution, and resource depletion challenges. Minimise waste, repurpose items and recycle whenever possible. Small changes can yield significant results.

Not a Barna Recycling customer yet? Join today your number one environmentally friendly waste collection provider.

Moving Day Tips: Disposing of Rubbish When Moving Out of Your Student Accommodation

As the exams season and the academic year draw to an end, students are getting ready to head back home for the summer months. However, we at Barna Recycling know that moving in and out of rented student accommodation can be a daunting task. Students often bring back unnecessary items and waste that will never be used again. To avoid this, it’s advisable to do a complete clear-out of your student accommodation before leaving.

We understand that disposing of rubbish can be confusing, especially if you’re unsure of the correct methods. Additionally, figuring out what to do with books, exam papers, and notes you no longer need can also be challenging. You might also be wondering how to dispose of cans, glass bottles, traffic cones, election posters, and other items you may have collected throughout the year. So, instead of bringing all the waste back home in your car, why not do a complete clear-out of your student accommodation? You’ll be surprised how much clutter you can accumulate over the academic year.

To make your moving day hassle-free, we have compiled some of our top tips and tricks for students and parents. These tips will not only help you dispose of your waste properly but also make the process quicker and more efficient. With our tips and tricks, you’ll be able to dispose of everything in an eco-friendly way and ensure a smooth and stress-free moving day.

How can I dispose of my rubbish?

When moving out of your rental accommodation, it is difficult to know which waste items from your home clear out would go into your usual waste bins and what shouldn’t. You want to leave the property as clean as possible as it was when you moved in. This Newsletter will provide valuable tips and tricks for students and parents.

Moving Day Tips For Students

Disposing of old books & papers: If you have old college books in good condition, you can donate them to the college library or request the student’s union to sell them on your behalf. Alternatively, you can pass them on to someone who has signed up to do the same course/subject in the upcoming academic year. If the books can’t be reused, you can put old books in your recycling bin.

Glass Bottles: If you need to dispose of glass bottles, visit your nearest bottle bank. However, make sure they are washed, dried, and separated into brown, clear or green glass.

Cans: once washed can go in your recycling bin too.

Clothes, Bedding & Mattresses: Any type of old clothing, footwear, or textiles, including blankets in unusable condition, can be brought to your local civic amenity sites to be disposed of at a reduced rate. Alternatively, clothes in usable condition that you no longer want can be given to siblings or friends, brought to a charity shop or your nearest clothes bank.

Electronic Waste Disposal: You can bring unwanted electrical waste, more commonly known as WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment), such as Computers, Monitors, Mobile Phones, Electronic Toys, Game consoles, Speakers, Headphones and electrical appliances to your local amenity site to dispose of it free of charge. Check out our blog to find out more about disposing of WEEE items.

Kitchen Items: If you have kitchen items that are in good condition but do not need to be kept, a charity shop would only be delighted to receive them.

How Parents Can Help

• If helping clear out their student accommodation, come prepared with a bucket load of patience, rubber gloves, cleaning items and black bags.
• Help them to decide what items they want to keep and what needs to be thrown out.
• Have a rubbish bag prepared for general waste and one for recycling.
• Try and decide what they want to do with the bulky items first, such as bedclothes, pots and pans, kettles etc. If they are being dumped or recycled, it will save quite a bit of space in the car. If they are being kept, then it will help them to see that there is little room left in the car and to be stricter about what they are keeping.
• Encourage them to go through clothes and dump anything that is well-worn or has holes in it (provided it’s not the good jeans with rips at the knees!)
• To make the process fast and efficient, while the student is sorting through their room, you could be packing up items in the kitchen and cleaning out their presses.
• Encourage them to recycle or sell any old books, notes, clothes, or other useful items, such as a bike, before the moving-out date.
• If the kitchen items are in good condition but do not need to be kept, a charity shop would only be delighted to receive them.
• Many charities often have collection points or van pickups at universities, so make sure to ask or enquire about these services if suitable.

Take Advantage of Your Local Civic Amenity Site

Barna Recycling’s purpose-built Civic Amenity Sites will assist you greatly when moving out of your home. We have seven civic amenity sites across Connacht for your convenience, where you can dispose of a large variety of non-hazardous and recyclable household waste at a reduced cost. Visit our website to find out where your nearest recycling centres might be located.

 Here are some of the benefits of using one of our civic amenity sites:

• They are cost-effective and cheap to use.
• Accept a wide range of items, including hazardous materials.
• They are clean, local, and easily accessible.
• Open on weekends to make them more accessible to all.
• They are well laid out and marked for each waste material.
• Cater for small and large deliveries in the exact location.
• Provide WEEE and Glass Bottle services free of charge.
• Cater for small and large deliveries in the exact location.

The items accepted will vary for each of our civic amenity sites. Please be sure to call in advance or check our website for the complete list of items accepted at your nearest centre. The charges for the items you bring to the respective civic amenity centre will be based on the type of vehicle you have, not the quantity or weight of the waste items themselves.

Our Barna Recycling team are always on hand at our civic amenity sites to greet you on arrival, assist you with drop-offs, and provide you with advice and information about recycling and waste disposal.

Alternatively, you can choose to hire a skip, which also makes throwing away rubbish much quicker and easier. At Barna Recycling, we have skips of all sizes for all purposes, so you can be sure we will have one to suit your needs and requirements– have a look at our helpful skip sizing guide for more information.

Don’t let unnecessary waste and clutter bog you down during your move. Let us help you make your moving day a breeze with our expert advice and guidance. If you would like more information on where to dispose of certain items or order a skip, give us a call today on 091 771619.