The Complete A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide

Egg cartons are often made of cardboard, polystyrene or plastic. Cardboard egg cartons are the most environmentally friendly option, and we would recommend these where possible. Clean cardboard egg cartons can be recycled in your paper and cardboard recycling bin or dry mixed recycling bin.

Eggshells should go in your food and garden waste bin at home. However, like other food and organic waste eggshells are also great in compost so if you have a compost bin at home. Simply crush them and add them to your compost.

The majority of electrical items are classed as WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment), and they will have the WEEE symbol on them. The symbol is a crossed-out wheelie bin which will usually be found somewhere on the device or in the paperwork. To dispose of your electrical items correctly, they should be taken to your local recycling centre or donate appliances to charity shops.

Energy-efficient light bulbs and LED bulbs are a type of low-energy fluorescent lamp, and they can be recycled at local recycling centres. Some shops may also have drop-off points if you want to avoid going to the tip. Older style incandescent bulbs aren't recyclable and should be thrown away with other non-recyclable waste in your rubbish bin.

Don't pour engine oil down the drain, it causes pollution, and it is breaking the law. Engine oil can be recycled but not in your recycling bin at home. You can take it to your local recycling centre for safe disposal. Please make sure it is in a sealed container, and it's not been mixed with any other liquid or substance.

Paper envelopes and letters are recyclable like the majority of other paper. These should go in your recycling bins at home for collection by your local council. Envelopes with plastic windows can also be recycled, but it helps if you remove the plastic window before putting it in your recycling bin.