Limitations

Recycle How is intended to make recycling guidance easier to find, but it cannot provide a perfect answer in every situation. These are the main limitations to keep in mind.

Image identification provides possible matches

The app uses image recognition to suggest several materials that an item might be made from. You choose the closest match before continuing. Similar-looking materials can be difficult to tell apart from a photograph, and the correct material may not always be included in the suggestions.

One item can contain several materials

Packaging and household items are often made from a mixture of plastic, paper, metal, glass, adhesives and coatings. Different parts may need to be separated and recycled differently. A photograph may not reveal every material in an item.

Recycling rules vary locally

What can be collected at the kerbside differs between countries and municipalities, and those rules can change. The guidance in the app is a useful starting point, but local authority guidance should take priority when it is more specific.

Location information may change

Recycling points can close, move, change their opening hours or stop accepting particular materials. Some locations may also be missing. Check the location's current information before making a special journey.

Nearby results depend on location accuracy

The app uses your device location or a place you search for to find nearby recycling points. Results can be less accurate when location access is unavailable or the selected place covers a large area.

Some waste needs specialist advice

Potentially hazardous items such as chemicals, medical waste, gas cylinders and damaged batteries may require special handling. Follow the product manufacturer's instructions or contact your local authority if you are uncertain.

Found a problem?

If a material, piece of guidance or recycling location appears to be wrong, please contact me. Include the item and approximate location if possible so I can investigate it.