For nearly 30 years, the UK has operated a system designed to make brands contribute towards the cost of recycling through Packaging Recycling Notes (PRNs). This week, we take a closer look at how the system really works, where it succeeds, where it falls short, and what the future of recycling funding in the UK could look like. Plus, is expanded polyethylene rubbish or not, are stickers on fruit and veg compostable, and why is James boring a lot of TikTok?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

If you would like to sponsor the Ecosurety team, their JustGiving page can be found here

We would like to have an evening Talking Rubbish to celebrate our 100th episode. It will be in central Bristol on the evening of the 25th June, to let us know if you can make it, book your place on Eventbrite

Please take a moment to complete the Simpler Recycling tracker

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
How brands fund recycling - the truth behind PRNs - 04:08
Additions and corrections - 34:55
Rubbish or Not: expanded polyethylene - 41:29
Rubbish News - 45:02
Are the stickers on fruit and veg compostable? - 49:24
Residual Rubbish - 54:01

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

It’s a familiar frustration, ordering something small, only for it to arrive in a box far bigger than it needs; wasteful and seemingly impossible to avoid. This week, we’re joined by Jude Pullen, a man on a mission to change that. Join us as we explore why companies so often get packaging wrong, uncovering the logistical challenges behind every delivery, and discover how Jude is using a blend of creativity and engineering to tackle this surprisingly complex problem.

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

We would like to have an evening Talking Rubbish to celebrate our 100th episode. It will be in central Bristol on the evening of the 25th June, to let us know if you can make it, book your place on Eventbrite

On the episode Jude mentions his board game Goats vs Llamas, which you can find here

Please take a moment to complete the Simpler Recycling tracker

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

On 16 March 2026, Netflix released 'The Plastic Detox', a documentary examining the health impacts of chemicals commonly found in plastics, particularly phthalates and BPA. In this episode, we unpack the science behind the film, reinforcing many of its conclusions while also exploring the gaps that prevent it from presenting a fully balanced scientific narrative. Plus, are plug-in air fresheners rubbish or not, which Easter egg will we be buying this year, and why is a road closure making James think about recycling.

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
Netflix's 'The Plastic Detox' - what it gets right (and what it misses) - 2:05
Additions and corrections - 31:13
Rubbish or Not: plug-in air fresheners - 36:42
Rubbish News - 41:44
Which Easter egg would we buy? - 46:10
Residual Rubbish - 54:43

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

With more than 160,000 followers on TikTok, Ashley might just be the most famous binman in the UK. In this episode, we sit down with the biggest binfluencer to talk about life on the rounds and how he built an online following by sharing the realities of the job. We also take a closer look at how bin collections actually work across the UK and hear first-hand what makes the job rewarding, challenging, and sometimes surprising. Ashley shares practical tips on how households can make life easier for refuse crews, reduce contamination in recycling, and play their part in helping waste services run smoothly. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at a vital public service that most of us rely on every week, but rarely think about.

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp, our number is 07356 069 232

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

In 2020, BrewDog made headlines with a bold promise; to plant Scotland’s largest forest and become the world’s first carbon-negative beer company. Five years later, the land has been sold, the carbon-negative pledges have quietly vanished, and the company itself is fighting for survival. So what happened? This week, we dig into the rise and fall of BrewDog’s ambitious reforestation project, and ask whether the planned forest was ever quite as sustainable as it claimed. Plus, are tree guards rubbish or not, are food waste disposal units a good idea, and does Robbie have slopey shoulders?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
Was the Brewdog forest greenwashing? - 2:30
Additions and corrections - 31:51
Rubbish or Not: tree guards - 37:27
Rubbish News - 46:45
Are food waste disposal units a good idea? - 50:56
Residual Rubbish - 54:26

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

In October 2025, five US state attorneys general wrote to environmental organisations warning that their collaboration efforts could potentially breach antitrust laws. Their argument: consumers should retain the right to choose packaging even if it harms the environment. This week, we unpack what happened, explore the key differences between US and UK competition law when it comes to companies working together on green initiatives, and examine what organisations can do to protect themselves from similar legal challenges. Plus, are triggers rubbish or not, how would we listen to our own podcast, and why has Robbie been embarrassed by a comedy gig?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
Is environmental collaboration illegal? - 2:18
Additions and corrections - 30:14
Rubbish or Not: triggers - 35:22
Rubbish News - 42:07
How would we listen to our own podcast? - 47:21
Residual Rubbish - 50:46

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

Last year, a study made startling headlines around the world with the claim that the average person carries the equivalent of a plastic teaspoon of microplastics in their brain. But how accurate is that finding, and if it’s questionable, why did the authors present it with such confidence? This week, we explore the challenges scientists face when measuring microplastics and nanoplastics in the human body, and why even peer-reviewed research published in the world’s most respected journals can sometimes get it wrong. Plus, are pumps on things like hand soap rubbish or not, does EPR penalise colour in plastic, and why is Robbie's window full of rubbish?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
Why microplastics are so hard to measure - 1:35
Additions and corrections - 27:45
Rubbish or Not: pumps - 36:22
Rubbish News - 41:06
Does EPR penalise colour in plastic? - 46:20
Residual Rubbish - 53:25

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

Simpler Recycling promises the biggest shake-up to the UK’s recycling system since kerbside collections began. But despite ambitions for nationwide consistency, exemptions mean some councils may take a different path. In this episode, we unpack the policy’s origins, examine why not everyone will have to follow the same rules, and look ahead to what the future of recycling might actually be. Plus, are contact lenses rubbish or not, is refillable packaging still considered packaging, why is James siding with Michael O'Leary?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
Why we all suddenly have food waste bins - 2:29
Additions and corrections - 30:46
Rubbish or Not: contact lenses - 38:37
Rubbish News - 43:14
Is refillable packaging still considered packaging? - 47:39
Residual Rubbish - 52:17

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

Much of the plastic packaging we use every day contains colours and additives that can be harmful, and that often prevent the plastic from being recycled at all. This week’s guest, Steven Burns, has spent years tackling that problem by developing ways to remove colour and additives from plastic, increasing its value and usability and making it far more likely to be recycled. In this episode, we explore how the process works, its potential to improve environmental outcomes, and how it could help reduce health concerns linked to plastic recycling.

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp, our number is 07356 069 232

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

Colour can make plastic more eye-catching, but it can also make it far less valuable, dramatically reducing the chances that it will ever be recycled back into packaging. Despite this, brands continue to add vibrant pigments to packaging to grab our attention, and more often than not, it works. In this episode, we unpack why colour is such a problem for recycling and how marketing priorities collide with material value. We also explore real-world success stories, from the removal of green from Sprite bottles to the shift from coloured to transparent milk bottle lids, small changes that make a surprisingly big difference. Plus, are flags rubbish or not, does glass need to be sorted by colour, and could Robbie set a new record for the fastest wheelie bin?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
How colour drains the value from plastic recycling - 2:11
Additions and corrections - 33:14
Rubbish or Not: flags - 38:50
Rubbish News - 44:51
Does glass need to be sorted by colour? - 49:52
Residual Rubbish - 54:18

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

A year ago, Birmingham’s bin workers walked out, and the city began to fill with rubbish. What started as a dispute over changes to job progression escalated into industrial action that left up to 17,000 tonnes of waste piling up on the streets. One year on, we revisit the strike to ask what’s changed, what hasn’t, and who has paid the price. How has the dispute shaped public trust, city services, and the future of waste collection? And with major recycling legislation on the horizon, is it time for the standoff to finally end, or is the dispute far from over? Plus, are lighters rubbish or not, why is compostable packaging not compostable in California, and why was James interviewed for the wrong segment on BBC Radio 4?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
Birmingham bin strike - 02:54
Additions and corrections - 34:49
Rubbish or Not: lighter - 43:03
Rubbish News - 46:23
Why is compostable plastic not compostable in California? - 50:52
Residual Rubbish - 54:04

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

“It’s all burned. It’s all shipped to Turkey. Recycling is a myth.”

We hear these claims all the time, that our carefully sorted waste ends up in landfill or incinerators, and that recycling is basically pointless. But how much of that is actually true? This week, we dig into the reality behind the headlines. Where does our recycling really go? Does cleaning and sorting your waste make any difference at all? And is there still a reason to bother? We debate the myths, unpack the facts, and, spoiler alert, aim to leave you feeling hopeful that looking after your rubbish is still worth the effort. Plus, are tea light candle holders rubbish or not, is a dead battery still a fire risk, and why is a $4,000 deposit return scheme not working for the litter on Mount Everest?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
Is recycling a scam? - 02:08
Additions and corrections - 31:53
Rubbish or Not: tea light candle holders - 41:02
Rubbish News - 43:00
Is a dead battery still dangerous? - 49:16
Residual Rubbish - 52:11

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

Amazon has announced that some older Kindles will soon lose support, turning devices that still physically work into obsolete products. It’s the latest example of a growing trend in tech, where companies phase out support and push consumers toward upgrades, creating mountains of unnecessary e-waste in the process. In this episode, we explore examples of planned obsolescence, the environmental impact of disposable tech, and what it could mean for consumers in the future. Plus, is wallpaper rubbish or not, will mass running events have to charge a bottle deposit, and why is James making friends at his local recycling centre?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

We would like to have an evening Talking Rubbish to celebrate our 100th episode. It will be in central Bristol on the evening of the 25th June, to let us know if you can make it, book your place on Eventbrite

Please take a moment to complete the Simpler Recycling tracker

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
From Kindle to kindling - how Big Tech creates waste? - 03:17
Additions and corrections - 33:44
Rubbish or Not: wallpaper - 41:32
Rubbish News - 43:52
Will mass running events have to charge a bottle deposit? - 47:54
Residual Rubbish - 53:35

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

New legislation is shifting the cost of recycling from taxpayers to the brands that create packaging in the first place. After decades of public funding, producers are now being asked to pay, but rolling out a brand-new system hasn’t been seamless. As the system settles, fees are being tied directly to how recyclable packaging is, a move that could reshape the packaging we see and buy every day. Plus, are glow sticks rubbish or not, why can we recycle aerosol cans at home but not gas canisters, and why was Robbie a bit too bold on council glass collections. 

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
Why your council tax isn't paying for your recycling anymore - 02:49
Additions and corrections - 34:35
Rubbish or Not: glow sticks - 43:01
Rubbish News - 48:04
Why can we recycle aerosol cans but not gas canisters? - 51:48
Residual Rubbish - 53:32

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

In 2021, Ellie and James left their jobs and spent 15 months travelling around the world. Along the way, they paid close attention to how sustainability showed up in practice; what worked, what didn’t, and what felt worth questioning. In this New Year’s episode, Ellie joins Robbie and James to reflect on the trip. They revisit it continent by continent, each sharing one idea or observation that stuck with them. The conversation covers travel, perspective, and what they took away from the experience.

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

Sign our very first pootition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/poo

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp, our number is 07356 069 232

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

In 2021, LEGO announced an ambitious plan to make its iconic bricks from recycled plastic bottles. Just two years later, the project was quietly scrapped. Why did it fail and why might that decision actually be a good thing? In this festive episode, we take a closer look at the UK’s number one toy brand and the sustainability initiatives behind its efforts to make a plastic toy more circular. Plus, are advent calendars rubbish or not, what should we do with compostable plastic, and why has Robbie been litter-picking Santa hats?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
Should LEGO use recycled plastic? - 02:28
Additions and corrections - 28:29
Rubbish or Not: advent calendars - 37:27
Rubbish News - 41:25
What should you do with compostable plastic? - 45:15
Residual Rubbish - 50:40

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

Imagine accidentally starting a fire that caused £30 million in damage and destroyed 60,000 tonnes of UK recycling, and never even knowing you did it. This is the hidden danger of battery fires, and unfortunately a true story. In recent years, the number of fires caused by batteries have more than doubled as batteries become more powerful and increasingly hazardous. Nowhere is this risk greater than in the waste and recycling industry, where a single misplaced battery can ignite during collection or processing. In this episode, we uncover how our current recycling systems are fuelling these fires and, crucially, what simple steps we can all take to make sure we’re not the ones who start the next one. Plus, are nitrous oxide canisters rubbish or not, can you recycle brittle bottles, and why has James been rummaging through a bin store in Tenerife?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
Battery fires - 04:23
Additions and corrections - 28:08
Rubbish or Not: nitrous oxide canisters - 35:47
Rubbish News - 41:56
Can you recycle brittle bottles? - 47:18
Residual Rubbish - 50:07

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

In 2017, Lucozade bottles were branded a “recycling villain”, not because of the bottle itself, but because the label wrapped around it was stopping the whole thing from being recycled. How can a simple label cause such a big problem, and why are brands often slow to fix issues like this? In this episode, we dive into the surprisingly technical world of packaging labels and uncover why even small changes are far more complex than they seem. Plus, are effervescent tablet tubes rubbish or not, should we dye our clothes, and why is Greggs in our bad books.

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
Why labels on bottles could prevent recycling - 02:42
Additions and corrections - 25:12
Rubbish or Not: effervescent tablet tubes - 34:28
Rubbish News - 37:46
Is it better to dye our clothes or re-buy? - 43:00
Residual Rubbish - 49:22

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

A vast illegal waste dump in Oxfordshire, stretching 150 metres and sinking two storeys deep, has sent shockwaves through the waste industry. It’s a stark reminder of one of the sector’s most persistent challenges: organised waste crime. How could a site of this scale emerge unnoticed and unchallenged? Why did it take the Environment Agency more than three months to formally shut it down? With incidents of large-scale fly-tipping on the rise, what does this mean for the future of waste management? Join us as we explore the growing shadow economy of waste crime and discuss the forces driving it. Plus, are postage stamps (and their books) rubbish or not, would we really recommend plastic over paper, and why is James fighting with an AI chatbot?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
Is waste crime on the rise? - 02:21
Additions and corrections - 27:55
Rubbish or Not: postage stamps - 36:08
Rubbish News - 39:31
Are we really recommending plastic over paper? - 46:31
Residual Rubbish - 54:40

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

With nearly 200,000 tonnes of direct carbon emissions linked to the UK TV and film industry in 2024, sustainability is quickly becoming an urgent priority. This week’s guest, Stephanie Shires, has helped deliver major carbon-reduction initiatives on some of the biggest shows currently on television. She offers a behind-the-scenes look at how environmental impact is managed on set, from food and transport, to accommodation and daily logistics. Steph breaks down the practical decisions she faces each day, revealing what it really takes to make modern productions more sustainable.

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

Sign our very first pootition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/poo

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp, our number is 07356 069 232

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

The world of television is a carbon minefield, packed with travel, fuel use, catering demands, high-maintenance talent and crews racing against the clock. So how is albert reshaping the industry? Does carbon tracking genuinely drive change, or has it become just another box to tick? In this episode, we go behind the scenes to uncover the challenges, innovations and everyday decisions that could make our favourite TV programmes far more sustainable. Plus, are fire extinguishers rubbish or not, what happens to bagged recycling, and why have James and Robbie both eaten Wagyu beef this week?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
The carbon footprint of TV - 02:00
Additions and corrections - 30:54
Rubbish or Not: fire extinguishers - 35:45
Rubbish News - 41:07
What happens to bagged recycling? - 45:52
Residual Rubbish - 50:11

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

In recent years, toilet rolls wrapped in paper instead of plastic have been hailed as the eco-friendly choice. But in most industries, individually wrapping products is seen as wasteful, so why does toilet paper get a free pass? In this episode, we unravel the surprisingly complicated world of “sustainable” loo roll. From eco brands to supermarket staples, we’ll find out which options really wipe the floor with the rest. Plus, are Carex refill pouches rubbish or not, should we flush or bin snotty toilet paper, and why is "bangers and cash" a great title for a future episode.

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
What toilet paper should you buy? - 01:45
Additions and corrections - 32:07
Rubbish or Not: Carex refill pouch - 40:02
Rubbish News - 44:03
Should we flush or bin snotty toilet paper? - 47:24
Residual Rubbish - 51:34

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

In 2016, the Ellen MacArthur Foundation made a striking prediction: by 2050, there could be more plastic in the ocean than fish. The claim spread like wildfire, appearing in headlines, reports, and speeches around the world. But is it true, or just a catchy soundbite? In this episode, we dive into how scientists estimate the weight of plastic and fish in the ocean, what those numbers really mean, and whether this alarming forecast holds water. Plus, are scratchcards rubbish or not, which aluminium foil should we buy, and is James regretting saying he would pay the fines for pouring away a coffee?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
Will there really be more plastic than fish in the ocean? - 04:26
Additions and corrections - 24:45
Rubbish or Not: scratchcards - 33:52
Rubbish News - 39:27
Which aluminium foil, recyclable or recycled material? - 42:41
Residual Rubbish - 46:02

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

A quiet revolution is underway in our supermarkets, the familiar barcode is being replaced by QR codes. But this isn’t just a tech upgrade. These next-generation codes could transform how we shop, unlocking detailed product information, improving recycling, and even helping to reduce food waste. As every scan reveals more data, this shift raises a bigger question: are we ready for a future where the things we buy know more about us than ever before? Plus, is cooking oil rubbish or not, will EU rules mean single use air fresheners are banned, and why is Robbie taking inspiration from Kamikatsu?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

We would like to have an evening Talking Rubbish to celebrate our 100th episode. It will be in central Bristol on the evening of the 25th June, to let us know if you can make it, book your place on Eventbrite

Please take a moment to complete the Simpler Recycling tracker

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
Is this the end of the barcode? - 03:21
Additions and corrections - 30:07
Rubbish or Not: cooking oil - 35:53
Rubbish News - 41:21
Will single use air fresheners be banned under PPWR? - 51:00
Residual Rubbish - 53:42

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

Launched in 2021, the Earthshot Prize has quickly become one of the most influential awards in global sustainability. Each year, it celebrates groundbreaking companies and visionary projects that embody the best of human ingenuity. In this episode, we explore who might take home the prize in 2025, why the money itself may matter less than you’d think, and whether spotlighting a single winner truly serves the bigger picture of lasting change. Plus, are water pistols rubbish or not, what is pre-consumer recycling, and have we found the longest (and best) review we will ever receive?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

Sign our very first pootition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/poo

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
Who should win the Earthshot prize? - 02:22
Additions and corrections - 25:48
Rubbish or Not: water pistols - 34:36
Rubbish News - 38:43
What is pre-consumer recycling? - 42:34
Residual Rubbish - 47:10

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

With over 17,000 islands, 34,000 miles of coastline, and limited formal waste management, Indonesia faces an immense waste challenge, one that’s compounded by imports of foreign waste from countries like the UK. This week’s guest, Esther Carter (recently named #1 on the Resource Hot 100), shares insights from her time living and working in Indonesia, offering a first-hand perspective on how the crisis unfolds on the ground. In this wide-ranging conversation, we dig into the realities of waste management across the archipelago, the social and environmental impacts of global waste trade, and explore what meaningful solutions could look like for Indonesia’s future.

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

Sign our very first pootition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/poo

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp, our number is 07356 069 232

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

Fresh from the Sustainable Packaging Coalition conference in Boston, we dive into America’s focus on EPR, flexible plastics, and consumer engagement. Don’t miss our biggest takeaways from this influential event. Plus, are red Solo cups rubbish or not, does pouring a drink down a drain count as littering, and why is James annoyed at his son?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

Sign our very first pootition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/poo

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
Why is recycling so hard in America? - 01:57
Additions and corrections - 30:27
Rubbish or Not: Red Solo Cups - 36:23
Rubbish News - 41:40
Is pouring a drink down a drain littering? - 47:22
Residual Rubbish - 53:07

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

Each year, airlines generate more than 5.7 million tonnes of cabin waste, much of it disappearing “out of sight, out of mind.” But behind those discarded coffee cups and meal trays lies a tangle of international regulations and border controls that make recycling very challenging. In this episode, we unpack the complex world of in-flight waste, explore why even recyclable materials are often treated as high-risk, and reveal the surprising barriers preventing airlines from improving. Plus, are balloons rubbish or not, how would we counter NGOs saying recycling is pointless, and are sundried tomatoes making us too niche?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

Sign our very first pootition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/poo

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
How airlines manage recycling - 02:34
Additions and corrections - 31:01
Rubbish or Not: balloons - 38:12
Rubbish News - 42:39
How would we counter NGOs saying recycling is pointless? - 47:21
Residual Rubbish - 52:42

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

In a seismic shift that really damages the credibility of 'The Rubbish Book', toothpaste tubes can now be recycled. But what changed to make an entire product category recyclable, and what could this mean for other similar products in the future? In this episode, we squeeze out every last detail, from collection and sorting to recycling innovations and the consumer messaging that makes it all work. Plus, are Capri-Sun pouches rubbish or not, how does a lack of on-the-go bins affect recycling rates, and what is the best thing James has ever done? 

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

Sign our very first pootition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/poo

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
Why toothpaste tubes can finally be recycled - 01:41
Additions and corrections - 30:08
Rubbish or Not: Capri-Sun pouch - 38:59
Rubbish News - 42:14
How does a lack of on-the-go bins affect recycling rates? - 46:15
Residual Rubbish - 50:19

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

The blind box market is booming, valued at more than $15 billion, with over 10 million Labubu dolls sold each month. But behind the thrill of surprise lies something darker, a system fuelled by FOMO and overconsumption. In this episode, we unbox the packaging to uncover the hidden psychology of blind boxes. Plus, are yoghurt pots rubbish or not, can wet cardboard be recycled, and is Robbie a secret video game model?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

Sign our very first pootition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/poo

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
The rise and risks of blind box packaging - 02:25
Additions and corrections - 30:54
Rubbish or Not: yoghurt pots - 37:15
Rubbish News - 42:04
Can wet cardboard be recycled? - 47:42
Residual Rubbish - 50:58

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

Over 160,000 households across 10 local authorities have been trialling flexible plastic collections. The early results are promising: strong participation, positive resident feedback, and low contamination rates. But while 400 tonnes have been collected so far, that figure pales in comparison to the estimated 150,000 tonnes expected once all councils are required to collect this material from 2027. Gareth Morton from Ecosurety joins us to explain how the system will scale to meet this surge, and what lessons we can take from the pilots already underway.

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

Sign our very first pootition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/poo

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

Recycling flexible (or soft) plastics has long been a challenge; costly, labour-intensive, and difficult to scale. In this episode, we explore how major UK brands came together to fund groundbreaking work that helped make supermarket collection of these plastics possible, paving the way for household recycling in the future. James and Robbie, two of the key drivers behind the initiative, take you behind the scenes to share the challenges, breakthroughs, and impact of this collaborative effort. Plus, are sponges rubbish or not, is incineration really better than landfill, and why is James angry at a piece of bubble wrap?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

Sign our very first pootition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/poo

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
Making flexible plastic recycling valuable - 03:01
Additions and corrections - 30:12
Rubbish or Not: sponges and loofahs - 39:10
Rubbish News - 44:04
Is incineration better than landfill? - 47:47
Residual Rubbish - 53:23

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

Plastic recycling is facing breaking point. Financial models aren’t adding up, legislation has stalled, and major brands are dialling back their commitments. With recyclers shutting their doors, we explore why the system is faltering, how the crisis could reshape the industry, and what it all means for the future of plastic. Plus, are water filters rubbish or not, what happens to the print on aluminium, and why are we not able to visit wet wipe island anymore?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

Sign our very first pootition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/poo

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
Is plastic recycling in crisis? - 01:49
Additions and corrections - 34:51
Rubbish or Not: water filters - 42:34
Rubbish News - 48:16
What happens to the print on aluminium foil? - 50:48
Residual Rubbish - 52:47

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

Hailed as a landmark effort to curb plastic pollution, the plastic treaty was supposed to unite nations around a binding plan to cut production, improve recycling, and reduce waste. But as talks dragged on, the deal collapsed under competing interests, petrochemical producers on one side, environmental advocates on the other. We break down what went wrong, why powerful industries fought to water down the agreement, and what the failure means for the future of global environmental policy. Plus, are Buzzballz rubbish or not, should we fold used crisp packets into triangles, and why is a restaurant cutting the top off James' aluminium can?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

Sign our very first pootition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/poo

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
Why the UN Plastic Treaty failed - 03:32
Additions and corrections - 27:51
Rubbish or Not: Buzzballz - 36:15
Rubbish News - 42:21
Does folding crisp packets into triangles affect recycling? - 47:25
Residual Rubbish - 49:51

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

Since February, the war in Iran has forced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting global oil flows and sending shockwaves through industries worldwide. But amid the turmoil, an unexpected consequence has emerged, recycled plastic is becoming more attractive to major brands. In this episode, we explore how the conflict is reshaping the economics of plastic, and what that could mean for the products we buy in the years ahead. Plus, are nasal spray bottles rubbish or not, is litter-picked waste ever classed as fly-tipping, and why does Robbie think episode 3 was worse than episode 90?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

We would like to have an evening Talking Rubbish to celebrate our 100th episode. It will be in central Bristol on the evening of the 25th June, to let us know if you can make it, book your place on Eventbrite

Please take a moment to complete the Simpler Recycling tracker

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
How the war in Iran is reshaping the plastic market? - 01:54
Additions and corrections - 26:19
Rubbish or Not: nasal spray bottles - 39:49
Rubbish News - 44:29
Can litter picked waste ever be classed as fly-tipping? - 50:11
Residual Rubbish - 54:13

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

Aluminium packaging is on the rise, moving beyond drinks cans and into products once dominated by plastic. But is it really the sustainable hero it’s made out to be? This episode unpacks the hidden costs and challenges behind the growth of aluminium, from its energy-intensive production to supply constraints, while also exploring its potential to transform the future of packaging. Join us as we weigh the pros and cons of a material that might just shape tomorrow’s shelves. Plus, are keys rubbish or not, should we use community collection points or kerbside bins for paper cartons, and why is James really happy with Smyths Toys?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

Sign our very first pootition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/poo

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
Is aluminium the ultimate packaging? - 0:59
Additions and corrections - 32:37
Rubbish or Not: keys - 38:05
Rubbish News - 41:54
Should we use community collection points or kerbside bins for paper cartons? - 46:42
Residual Rubbish - 50:42

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

This week’s guest, Saabira Chaudhuri, author of Consumed: How Big Brands Got Us Hooked on Plastic, takes us on a fascinating journey through the meteoric rise of plastic. From the quirks of history that propelled it past every rival material, to the boardroom decisions that sealed its fate, we uncover how plastic became the world’s go-to choice, and what we might do differently if we could start again.

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

Sign our very first pootition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/poo

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

In the UK, sachets might seem like a small, insignificant problem but across the world, they're anything but. In countries like India, sachets are the primary packaging for a wide range of everyday products. Globally, an estimated 855 billion are used every year. This week, we delve into the surprising history of the sachet, how it became a major contributor to global plastic waste, and whether there’s any case to be made in its defence. Plus, is Play-Doh rubbish or not, what should we do when we encounter bad recycling labelling, and why do Robbie's ice cubes taste of chicken soup?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

Sign our very first pootition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/poo

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
Sachets - 2:31
Additions and corrections - 29:42
Rubbish or Not: Play-Doh - 36:17
Rubbish News - 39:44
What should we do when we encounter bad recycling labelling? - 44:20
Residual Rubbish - 47:15

Cover image: Bloomberg via Getty Images

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

Ever received a tiny item in an enormous box? You're not alone, and believe it or not, that kind of wasteful packaging might actually be illegal. In this episode, Talking Rubbish unpacks (pun intended) a little-known piece of legislation that gives you the power to push back. We dig into the truth behind excessive packaging, reveal what the law really says, and show how everyday consumers can make a real environmental impact. It's time to turn your frustration into action. Plus, is cheese wax rubbish or not, why do fizzy bottle threads have gaps in them, and why is Robbie not a fan of his fan.

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

Sign our very first pootition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/poo

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
Why excessive packaging is illegal - 2:11
Additions and corrections - 26:53
Rubbish or Not: cheese wax - 34:14
Rubbish News - 42:10
Why do fizzy bottle threads have gaps in them? - 48:17
Residual Rubbish - 52:20

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

Often ignored and rarely understood, landfills are one of the most fascinating components of our waste system. In this episode, we dig deep (literally and metaphorically) into how landfills actually work, how they get closed when they are full, and why they need looking after for decades after the last piece of rubbish is dealt with. Out of sight doesn’t have to mean out of mind. Plus, are sandwich packs rubbish or not, can tape go in the soft plastic bin at supermarkets, and are we too boring for social media?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

To vote for James and Robbie in the Resource Hot 100, please use the links below: 

James and Robbie

Sign our very first pootition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/poo

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
How landfills actually work? - 4:29
Additions and corrections - 31:13
Rubbish or Not: sandwich packs - 38:59
Rubbish News - 42:43
Can tape go in the soft plastic bin? - 49:09
Residual Rubbish - 52:18

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

New research suggests that glass bottles may contain more microplastics than plastic bottles or aluminium cans, but how is that even possible? We dive into where these plastics are coming from, why the media is not highlighting this surprising fact, and what it tells us about the hidden complexities of packaging. Plus, are cocktail sticks rubbish or not, do we actually need to put a bin liner in our bins, and why is James eating plastic?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

To vote for James and Robbie in the Resource Hot 100, please use the links below: 

James and Robbie

Sign our very first petition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/poo

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
Why does your glass bottle contain microplastics? - 2:31
Additions and corrections - 28:47
Rubbish or Not: cocktail sticks - 36:15
Rubbish News - 40:29
Do we need to put a bin liner in our general bins? - 47:55
Residual Rubbish - 52:57

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

We’re thrilled to mark our 50th episode with a very special guest: renowned climate expert and communicator, Mike Berners-Lee. In this milestone conversation, we dive into his latest book, A Climate of Truth, which challenges governments, the media, and all of us to confront climate issues with honesty, urgency, and clarity. His call for truth-telling deeply aligns with our own mission of promoting transparent and impactful sustainability. Join us for this thought-provoking discussion, and let’s make the next 50 episodes even more powerful, together.

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

To vote for James and Robbie in the Resource Hot 100, please use the links below: 
Robbie and James
(see, I am not competitive, I put Robbie's link first!)

Sign our very first petition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/poo

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

Carbon offsetting has sparked both enthusiasm and scepticism in recent years. Is it a vital source of funding for crucial climate projects, or just a clever form of greenwashing? In this episode, we unpack what it takes to create a carbon offset, why the process is so complex, and how growing scrutiny is reshaping the market. Plus, are Ozempic pens rubbish or not, do we need to remove the security tag from plastic packaging and have we found the best review we will ever receive?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

Sign our very first petition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/poo

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
Carbon offsetting - 2:01
Additions and corrections - 29:16
Rubbish or Not: Ozempic pens - 37:51
Rubbish News - 42:40
Do we need to remove the security tag from packaging? - 47:00
Residual Rubbish - 48:46

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

It’s Glastonbury! As festival season kicks off, so does a tidal wave of waste, but also a chance for change. Festivals create a unique, closed environment ideal for using compostable plastics, reusable packaging, and cutting-edge sustainability tech. This week, we dive into the most exciting eco-initiatives happening on the festival circuit and ask: how do they stack up against the giant that is Glastonbury? Plus, are disposable BBQs rubbish or not, should ocean bound plastic be used in a reusable bottle and why is Robbie worried about badgers?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

Sign our very first petition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/poo

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
Can festivals be sustainable? - 4:35
Additions and corrections - 33:43
Rubbish or Not: disposable BBQs - 38:06
Rubbish News - 41:24
Should reusable bottles contain ocean bound plastic? - 46:26
Residual Rubbish - 52:51

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

Flats and houses of multiple occupation (HMOs) have long posed a challenge for the recycling industry, with high contamination rates and varied attitudes toward waste separation. In this episode, we explore what recent trials have revealed about improving recycling in these tricky settings and how much of a difference these changes could make across the UK. Plus, are pens rubbish or not, what actually happens to the waste we toss into skips and is the disposable vape ban actually going to solve the issue?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

Sign our very first petition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/poo

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
How to improve recycling in flats - 1:25
Additions and corrections - 28:34
Rubbish or Not: pens - 36:48
Rubbish News - 44:47
What happens to the rubbish in skips? - 50:38
Residual Rubbish - 55:17

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

In recent years, the Government has been rolling out four major policies set to reshape the waste industry. But could these well-intentioned reforms have an unintended side effect, driving a shift towards more plastic? In this episode, we explore how Extended Producer Responsibility and the future Deposit Return Scheme could change the packaging choices brands make, and what that might mean for the products on our supermarket shelves. Plus, are plant pots rubbish or not, what percentage of household batteries are actually recycled, and why is James considering taking up smoking to insulate his house?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

Please take a moment to complete the Simpler Recycling tracker

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
Is the Government driving up plastic use? - 02:15
Additions and corrections - 32:47
Rubbish or Not: plant pots - 39:19
Rubbish News - 45:06
What percentage of household batteries are recycled? - 48:21
Residual Rubbish - 52:51

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

Greenwashing. It's a term we’re hearing far too often, especially about brands that should know better. In this episode, we unpack how slick marketing turns cost-cutting and empty promises into the illusion of sustainability. From misleading campaigns to carefully buried truths, we reveal how companies exploit eco-conscious consumers in the name of profit. With real-world examples and practical tips, we’ll help you spot the red flags and make more informed, authentic choices. Plus, are jigsaw puzzles rubbish or not, is recycled plastic worse for human health and why is James obsessed with an AI bin?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

Sign our very first petition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/poo

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
Greenwashing - 1:32
Additions and corrections - 34:53
Rubbish or Not: jigsaw puzzles - 40:19
Rubbish News - 43:14
Is recycled plastic worse for human health? - 48:45
Residual Rubbish - 53:42

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

This week on the podcast, James and Robbie sit down with Alice Harlock from OPRL, the organisation behind those “recycle” or “do not recycle” labels on packaging. We increasingly rely on these labels to guide our recycling habits, but how do they stay accurate in a world of constantly changing local rules and slow packaging timelines? Alice shares the challenges and surprising complexities behind recycling communication, and why getting it right matters more than ever.

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

As part of sweeping new recycling legislation, the UK Government is rolling out the Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM), a traffic light system rating how recyclable packaging really is. But is it any government’s job to steer material choices, or should markets decide? Could this stifle innovation in emerging materials without established recycling infrastructure? And does a weight-based system unfairly favour plastic over heavier options like glass? We unpack the pros, cons, opportunities and indeed unintended consequences of RAM. Plus, how are mobile phones recycled, are staples rubbish or not and do aluminium cans really contain plastic?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
How are mobile phones recycled? - 10:45
Should the Government control our packaging? - 17:41
Rubbish or Not: staples - 47:49
Do aluminium cans really contain plastic? - 50:34

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

Last month, headlines sounded the alarm: 'Plastic causes heart disease!' Scary? Definitely. But as usual, the reality is far more complex than the clickbait. What kind of plastic are we talking about? How exactly are we exposed to it? And if it’s so harmful, why are we still making it? In this episode, we cut through the noise, unpack the science, and explore the big questions behind the story. Plus, how are mobile phones collected, is the wrapper around butter rubbish or not and why do free compostable bags have holes in?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast

Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address talkingrubbishpodcast@gmail.com or by texting them via WhatsApp

Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee

Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
How are mobile phones collected? - 11:25
Does plastic cause heart disease? - 16:15
Rubbish or Not: butter wrapper - 46:00
Why do free compostable bags have holes in? - 51:18

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL