Talking Rubbish - The Recycling Podcast

96. How recycling is really funded

Thu, 28 May 2026 04:00:00 +0100

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

95. The tech that could end overpackaged boxes, with Jude Pullen

Thu, 21 May 2026 04:00:00 +0100

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.

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

94. From Kindle to kindling - how Big Tech creates waste

Thu, 14 May 2026 04:00:00 +0100

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?

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

93. The death of the barcode - a win for sustainability?

Thu, 07 May 2026 04:00:00 +0100

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?

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

92. How the war in Iran is reshaping the plastic market

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0100

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?

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

91. Is the Government driving up plastic use?

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0100

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?

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

90. Inside Netflix's 'The Plastic Detox' - the story beyond the screen, with Eric Isaac

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0100

Last month, Netflix released The Plastic Detox, which we reviewed in Episode 86, and it left us with a lot of questions. One of the film’s featured participants, Eric Isaac, got in touch to let us know he could help fill in the gaps. So instead of a back-and-forth over email, we invited him onto the show. Join us this week as we go behind the scenes of this groundbreaking documentary, unpacking what the couples really did to remove plastic from their lives, what didn’t make the final cut, and the realities of trying to live plastic-free.

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

89. Is palm oil really that bad?

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0100

Palm oil has a notoriously bad reputation; mention it, and you’ll likely hear strong criticism, particularly if you manage the social media of a podcast that very recently discussed Cadbury’s Easter egg packaging. But is the story really that simple? In this episode, we take a closer look at palm oil; what’s driving its environmental impact, why it’s so widely used, and what can realistically be done about it. Plus, are plastic air fresheners rubbish or not, why are cardboard cartons going in the plastic bin, and why might a paid tier of Talking Rubbish get us in trouble?

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 palm oil really that bad? - 02:10
Additions and corrections - 31:22
Rubbish or Not: plastic air fresheners - 38:54
Rubbish News - 42:46
Why are cardboard cartons going in the plastic bin? - 47:29
Residual Rubbish - 50:58

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

88. The truth behind ‘lost parcel’ reselling - scam or goldmine?

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0100

What happens to the parcels that never reach their buyers? A growing industry has an answer, reselling them as “mystery packages,” promising hidden treasures and unbeatable value. But do these surprise boxes live up to the hype, or are they too good to be true? In this episode, we unpack the world of parcel resellers to find out whether they offer a genuine solution to waste, or simply sell the illusion of a bargain. Plus, are floss picks rubbish or not, should we squash our packaging, and what is James having to confess to Robbie?

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, 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 truth behind ‘lost parcel’ reselling - 01:50
Additions and corrections - 33:32
Rubbish or Not: floss picks - 39:43
Rubbish News - 42:48
Should we squash our packaging? - 47:22
Residual Rubbish - 51:30

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

87. Is expensive petrol driving people to electric cars?

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 04:00:00 +0000

As tensions rise in Iran, global oil prices are climbing, with potential knock-on effects for everyday costs. From higher petrol and diesel prices to wider economic pressures, the impact is becoming more noticeable. But could this moment mark a tipping point for electric vehicles? In this episode, we dive into the realities of EV ownership; unpacking range anxiety, upfront and long-term costs, and the true environmental footprint. Are electric cars really the greener, smarter alternative to traditional engines, or is the picture more complicated than it seems? Plus, are ice packs rubbish or not, is a hand dryer better than paper towels, and why might the new owners of Robbie's house be unhappy with him?

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, 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 expensive petrol driving people to electric cars? - 2:17
Additions and corrections - 30:42
Rubbish or Not: ice packs - 35:28
Rubbish News - 36:54
Is it better to use a hand dryer or paper towels? - 50:09
Residual Rubbish - 53:59

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

86. Netflix's 'The Plastic Detox' - what it gets right (and what it misses)

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 04:00:00 +0000

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.

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

85. Talking rubbish...with the man who collects it, the No. 1 Binman

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 04:00:00 +0000

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.

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

84. The BrewDog forest - climate solution or greenwashing?

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 04:00:00 +0000

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?

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

83. Is climate collaboration illegal?

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 04:00:00 +0000

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?

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

82. Is there a teaspoon of microplastics in our brains?

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 04:00:00 +0000

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?

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

81. The sudden rise of food waste bins

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 04:00:00 +0000

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?

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

80. How to remove colour from plastic, with Steven Burns

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 04:00:00 +0000

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.

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

79. How colour drains the value from plastic recycling

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 04:00:00 +0000

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?

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

78. Birmingham bin strike - what happens when waste piles up?

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 04:00:00 +0000

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?

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

77. Is recycling a scam?

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 04:00:00 +0000

“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?

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

76. Why your council tax isn't paying for your recycling anymore

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 04:00:00 +0000

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.

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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

75. Sustainability around the world, with Ellie Piper

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 04:00:00 +0000

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.

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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

74. Should LEGO use recycled plastic?

Thu, 25 Dec 2025 04:00:00 +0000

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?

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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

73. Battery fires - the growing problem within recycling

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 04:00:00 +0000

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?

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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

72. Why labels on bottles could ruin our recycling

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 04:00:00 +0000

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.

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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

71. Dirty business - is waste crime on the rise?

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 04:00:00 +0000

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?

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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

70. Behind the scenes of sustainable TV production, with Stephanie Shires

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 04:00:00 +0000

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.

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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

69. Green Screen - the carbon footprint of TV

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 04:00:00 +0000

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?

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

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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

68. Sustainable toilet paper - getting to the bottom of it

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 04:00:00 +0000

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.

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

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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

67. Will there really be more plastic than fish in the ocean?

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 04:00:00 +0000

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?

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

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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

66. Who should win the Earthshot prize?

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 04:00:00 +0000

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?

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

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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

65. Recycling realities in the Global South, with Esther Carter from Delterra

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 04:00:00 +0100

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.

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

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

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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

64. Why is recycling so hard in America?

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 04:00:00 +0100

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?

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

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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

63. Waste on a plane - how airlines manage recycling

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 04:00:00 +0100

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?

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

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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

62. Why toothpaste tubes can finally be recycled

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 04:00:00 +0100

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?

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

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

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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

61. Labubu - the rise and risks of blind box packaging

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 04:00:00 +0100

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?

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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

60. FlexCollect - closing the loop on flexible plastic, with Gareth Morton from Ecosurety

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 04:00:00 +0100

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.

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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

59. How we made flexible plastic recycling valuable

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 04:00:00 +0100

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?

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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

58. Why plastic recycling isn't working

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 04:00:00 +0100

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?

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

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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

57. Why the UN Plastic Treaty failed...again!

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 04:00:00 +0100

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?

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

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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

56. Is aluminium the ultimate packaging?

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 04:00:00 +0100

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?

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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

55. How brands got us hooked on plastic, with Saabira Chaudhuri

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 04:00:00 +0100

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.

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

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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

54. Sachets - the true cost of convenience

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 04:00:00 +0100

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?

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

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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

53. Why excessive packaging is illegal

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 04:00:00 +0100

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.

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

52. How landfills actually work

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 04:00:00 +0100

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?

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

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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

51. Why does your glass bottle contain microplastics?

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 04:00:00 +0100

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?

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

50. The truth about climate change, with Mike Berners-Lee

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 04:00:00 +0100

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.

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

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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

49. Carbon offsetting - the good, the bad and the ugly

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 04:00:00 +0100

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?

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

48. Green fields - can festivals be sustainable?

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 04:00:00 +0100

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?

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

47. Recycling in flats - how to make it work

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 04:00:00 +0100

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?

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

46. Greenwashing exposed - the brands that mislead

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 04:00:00 +0100

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?

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

45. Recycling labels explained, with Alice Harlock from OPRL

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 04:00:00 +0100

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.

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

44. RAM raid - should the Government control our packaging?

Thu, 29 May 2025 04:00:00 +0100

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?

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

43. Does plastic cause heart disease?

Thu, 22 May 2025 04:00:00 +0100

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?

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

42. Do we really only recycle 9% of plastic?

Thu, 15 May 2025 04:00:00 +0100

The widely cited statistic that just 9% of plastic is recycled has become a common talking point, but how accurate is it? In this episode, we unpack the truth behind the number and explore the complex world of plastic recycling. From the recycling-friendly plastic bottle to the problematic flexible films, not all plastics are created equal, and neither are the recycling efforts of countries around the world. Plus, how are ink cartridges recycled, are stickers rubbish or not and do laundry pods break down into microplastics?

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 ink cartridges recycled? - 13:16
Do we really only recycle 9% of plastic? - 21:27
Rubbish or Not: stickers - 50:03
Do laundry pods break down into microplastics? - 53:15

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

41. On a mission - what can we learn from plastic recycling in South Africa?

Thu, 08 May 2025 04:00:00 +0100

Robbie is back from a Global Expert Mission to South Africa, where he explored the challenges and innovations shaping plastic recycling and sustainability. In this episode, he shares eye-opening insights from his trip, from the realities of landfills and the role of waste reclaimers to the impact of voluntary Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes and how businesses are embracing recycled content. Plus, how are ink cartridges collected, are cotton buds rubbish or not, and we have been asked why paper ice cream tubs can be collected at home if coffee cups can't be?

We would love you to join our community on Discord

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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 ink cartridges collected? - 13:35
What did Robbie learn in South Africa? - 22:06
Rubbish or Not: cotton buds - 49:31
Why is a paper ice cream tub labelled 'recyclable' but a coffee cup isn't? - 51:39

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

40. Is paper the new glass, with Will Connolly from Diageo

Thu, 01 May 2025 04:00:00 +0100

Our first ever live episode, recorded at the NEC in Birmingham during Packaging Innovations! In this special episode, James and Robbie are joined by Will Connolly from Diageo, the creative force behind the paper-based packaging for iconic brands like Johnnie Walker and Baileys. Together, we dive deeper into the world of paperisation, exploring why paper bottles are gaining momentum, the challenges of sorting and recycling them, and what it will take to move from niche experiments to mainstream adoption.

We would love you to join our community on Discord

If you want to come and see us at Earthfest, get your tickets here

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

39. From plastic to paper - a greener move or greenwashed myth?

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 04:00:00 +0100

The shift from plastic to paper is gaining momentum as brands look for more sustainable packaging, but is paper really the better option? This episode digs beneath the surface of the paper trend, uncovering hidden environmental concerns like increasing monoculture forests, water use and the carbon impact of paper. Plus, we also dive into how textiles are recycled, whether tracing paper is rubbish or not, and just how much of your average milk bottle is made from recycled plastic.

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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 textiles recycled? - 11:19
Should we be making bottles out of paper? - 20:58
Rubbish or Not: tracing paper - 53:29
How much recycled content is in a plastic milk bottle? - 55:18

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

38. Who is the best recycler in England?

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 04:00:00 +0100

The recycling league tables are in! Recycling rates are on the rise, but there is a twist; the actual amount of packaging being recycled is going down. Confused? So were we. In this episode, we unpack this surprising contradiction and dive into the data. Which regions in England are leading the charge, and which are falling behind? And more importantly, why? Plus, we explore the sorting of textiles, are Calpol syringes rubbish or not and can you recycle broken glass?

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 textiles sorted? - 11:23
Who is the best recycler in England - 18:11
Rubbish or Not: Calpol syringes - 42:02
Can you recycle broken glass? - 46:04

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

37. Eco-pets - reducing your pet’s carbon pawprint

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 04:00:00 +0100

Happy National Pet Day! In this special episode, we're celebrating our beloved furry companions while exploring how to care for them in a more eco-friendly way. From sustainable pet diets to the best plastics for waste disposal, we’ll share simple tips to reduce your pet’s pawprint on the planet. Plus, how are pet food pouches recycled, are dog toys rubbish or not and can you compost dog 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 are pet food pouches recycled? - 13:15
How can we reduce our pet's carbon pawprint - 22:32
Rubbish or Not: dog toys - 45:37
Should we compost pet poo? - 50:04

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

36. Ditching disposables - making reusable coffee cups the new normal

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 04:00:00 +0100

Despite years of effort, reusable cup initiatives have struggled to break through, often dismissed as 'interesting but not scalable'. Some coffee shops have even banned single-use cups, only to watch their sales drop. So, what’s really holding reuse back? And can we ever make it the norm? In this episode, we dive into the successes, setbacks, and lessons learned from the push for reusables, and explore whether a waste-free coffee culture is truly within reach. Plus, how are textiles collected, are magnets rubbish or not and how could EPR improve reuse?

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 textiles collected? - 11:57
How to make reusable coffee cups work - 16:53
Rubbish or Not: magnets - 47:57
How could EPR improve reuse? - 50:17

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

35. How to recycle a coffee cup with Rob Tilsley from James Cropper

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 04:00:00 +0000

This week on the podcast, James and Robbie dive deeper into the world of coffee cups with special guest Rob Tilsley from James Cropper, a UK pioneer in coffee cup recycling. Together, they unpack the hidden economics behind plastic-lined cups versus innovative new coatings, reveal how brands and retailers have been quietly working to collect our used cups for longer than we realise, and uncover the surprising reason Christmas brings a wave of pink cardboard.

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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

34. Cups, coatings, and confusion - why your coffee cup isn’t recycled

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 04:00:00 +0000

We get through a staggering 3.2 billion single-use paper coffee cups every year and most of us assume they’re easily recyclable. But the reality? It’s not that simple. In this episode, we unpack why coffee cups are so hard to recycle, why they need to be collected separately, and what role those tricky plastic coatings play. Listen to find out what you should be doing with your cup once you’ve finished that double espresso. Plus, how are lightbulbs recycled, are hot water bottles rubbish or not and how does mixing waste affect recycling rates?

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 lightbulbs recycled? - 12:10
Why your coffee cup isn't recycled - 19:35
Rubbish or Not: hot water bottles - 48:51
Does mixing waste affect recycling rates? - 53:29

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

33. Why finding plastic in the ocean is harder than you think

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Ocean plastic pollution is a massive problem, but it’s even worse than we think. Many imagine vast islands of floating rubbish, easy to scoop up and remove. The reality? Most of it is nearly invisible, scattered from the surface to the deepest trenches. On today’s episode of Talking Rubbish, we uncover the shocking truth about ocean plastic and why cleaning it up is far more complicated than it seems. Plus, how are lightbulbs collected, are tomato purée tubes rubbish or not and how will Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) affect smaller companies?

We would love you to join our community on Discord

To watch “Smog of the Sea”, click here

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 lightbulbs collected? - 14:13
Why you can't visit the Great Pacific Garbage Patch? - 23:18
Rubbish or Not: tomato purée tubes - 47:06
How will EPR affect small businesses? - 50:56

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

32. Is Trump right to bring back plastic straws?

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 04:00:00 +0000

It was only a matter of time before a Trump policy made its way onto Talking Rubbish, his ‘BACK TO PLASTIC’ post on social media sealed the deal. This week, we’re diving into the much-vilified drinking straw. What’s the best material for it? Is there any logic in returning to plastic? And why are we so strangely obsessed with straws in the first place? Plus, how are tyres recycled, are glass candle holders rubbish or not and what plastic should we use as a bin liner?

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 tyres recycled? - 13:58
Is Trump right to bring back plastic straws? - 22:27
Rubbish or Not: glass candle holders - 47:40
What plastic should you use as a bin liner? - 50:34

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

31. Shattered - the end of glass packaging?

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 04:00:00 +0000

With a wave of new recycling legislation on the horizon, weight-based costs are set to become the norm. Could this spell the end of glass packaging as companies pivot to lighter paper and plastic alternatives? In this episode, we break down four key pieces of legislation coming in the next few years and explore how they could reshape the packaging industry, and the products we buy every day. Plus, how are tyres collected, is the plastic widget in a can of Guinness rubbish or not and what is the purpose of the Green Dot?

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 tyres collected? - 9:53
Is this the end of glass packaging? - 17:51
Rubbish or Not: widget in a Guinness can - 45:09
What is the purpose of the Green Dot? - 50:56

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

30. A good car crash with Stuart Goldsmith, Climate Comedian

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 04:00:00 +0000

This week, James and Robbie welcome Stuart Goldsmith, a climate comedian. Stuart has performed comedy on TV around the world, including on Live At The Apollo, Conan, and Russell Howard’s Stand Up Central. He now uses his material on climate to support sustainability teams of large organisations, and turn dread into hope and action. Lots of fun was had recording this episode, consider this your content warning if you think our show has too many laughs!

As discussed in this episode we would love you to join our community on Discord

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow them 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

29. Rubbish decision? The shift to monthly bin collections

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Bristol is considering a shift to a 4-weekly general bin collection. What’s behind this decision, and how could it help boost recycling rates? In this episode, we dive into the strategies councils are using to optimise waste collections, examining those getting it right and others that still have room for improvement in the ongoing search for the ideal frequency of collection. Plus, how is garden waste recycled, are glasses (of the spectacle variety) rubbish or not, and how clean does our recycling actually need to be?

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 is garden waste recycled? - 12:02
Should councils move to 4-weekly collections? - 23:01
Rubbish or Not: glasses (spectacles) - 47:27
How clean does our recycling need to be? - 49:54

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

28. Disappearing plastic? The controversy of oxo-degradable

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 04:00:00 +0000

How can a plastic be banned in some countries and be mandatory in others? This is the conundrum of oxo-degradable plastic. This week Talking Rubbish attempts to demystify this particular plastic; explaining what it is, how it works and most importantly discussing whether it should exist. Plus, we dig into how garden waste is collected, is the netting around oranges rubbish or not, and what should we do with electricals with built-in batteries?

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Special thanks to our brand new sponsor, Ecosurety

Talking Rubbish is going live! To register to come and see a (very) unpolished version of the podcast, click here

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 is garden waste collected? - 13:13
The controversy of oxo-degradable plastic - 20:46
Rubbish or Not: netting around fruit - 48:19
What should we do with electricals with built-in batteries? - 50:57

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

27. Why do we export so much plastic for recycling?

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 04:00:00 +0000

We all know tonnes of plastic are exported, but how much actually leaves our shores, and where does it end up? Talking Rubbish dives into the murky world of plastic exports, uncovering why China shut its doors, the ripple effects on global markets, and which countries stepped in to take its place. Plus, we break down the process of recycling batteries, ask whether peach pads are Rubbish or Not (don’t worry, we’ll explain), and ask, could mixed plastics contain multiple invisible barcodes?

We would love you to join our community on Discord

Talking Rubbish is going live! To register to come and see a (very) unpolished version of the podcast, click here

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 batteries recycled? - 12:43
Why do we export so much plastic for recycling? - 19:25
Rubbish or Not: peach pad - 50:25
If something is mixed plastic could it have multiple invisible barcodes? - 53:03

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

26. Toxic tableware? The truth about black plastic utensils

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 04:00:00 +0000

In October 2024, headlines exploded with 3 million articles urging us to ditch our black plastic utensils. But should you really? In this episode, we uncover the surprising science behind the sensationalism, revealing why the full story might prompt you to keep that trusty plastic spatula a bit longer. We also dive into battery sorting, debate whether the revamped Pringles tube is rubbish or not, and explore if councils will abandon plastic bottle and aluminium can collections when the Deposit Return Scheme rolls out.

We would love you to join our community on Discord

As mentioned in the episode, Talking Rubbish is going live! To register to come and see a (very) unpolished version of the podcast, click here

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow them 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 batteries sorted? - 13:49
Should you throw out your black plastic utensils? - 19:43
Rubbish or Not: Pringles tube - 41:41
Will councils stop collecting cans and bottles? - 46:06

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

25. Making the invisible, visible, with Alice Rackley from Polytag

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 04:00:00 +0000

This week, James and Robbie welcome Alice Rackley, CEO of Polytag, a groundbreaking company revolutionising plastic recycling with UV watermark technology. Trusted by major retailers like Aldi, Co-op, Ocado, and M&S, Polytag is set to cover 50% of UK domestic household recycling, driving significant change in the way we manage waste. Alice shares the story behind Polytag’s journey, explains the fascinating mechanics of their innovative barcodes, and discusses how this transparency impacts brands. Are companies embracing the data, or are they wary of the insights it reveals?

As discussed in this episode we would love you to join our community on Discord

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow them 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

24. Are invisible barcodes the holy grail of plastic recycling?

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Did you know the packaging you buy today might be covered in invisible barcodes? These barcodes help recyclers to work out what type of plastic a yoghurt pot might be made of, or whether an empty bottle was full of drink or detergent. For this reason they are cited as the future of our packaging! How do they work and where might we find them? Plus, we explore battery collections, are train tickets rubbish or not and we answer a really big question, how bad really is glitter?

As discussed in this episode we would love you to join our community on Discord

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow them 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 batteries collected? - 12:43
Invisible barcodes - 18:10
Rubbish or Not: train tickets - 43:47
How bad is glitter? - 47:12

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

23. Recycling rewards - exploring Deposit Return Schemes

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Deposit Return Schemes are officially on the horizon! With the Government having recently passed legislation, there’s no better time to dive into the details. How exactly do these schemes work? Will we all really be returning our drinks bottles and cans to stores? And why might this be a challenge for a country already equipped with kerbside recycling? Plus, we explore how electricals are recycled, are fireworks rubbish or not and why do some flexible plastics have a label that says not to recycle them?

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow them 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 electricals recycled? - 11:05
Deposit Return Schemes - 19:09
Rubbish or Not: Fireworks - 46:26
Why does some flexible plastic say 'do not recycle'? - 49:21

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

22. Green Christmas - unwrapping festive recycling

Thu, 26 Dec 2024 04:00:00 +0000

Ho Ho Ho, and merry Christmas to all our listeners! In this jam-packed Christmas special we deep dive into tubs of chocolate (we feel this might be both metaphorical and literal this week). Why do the tubs and tins need to be made with brand new materials? What are we meant to do with chocolate wrappers? Also, we explore the recyclability of Christmas trees (and yes, we will talk about artificial vs. real), can Christmas crackers be recycled and what exactly is the scrunch test?

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow them 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 Christmas trees recycled? - 12:01
What to do with tubs of chocolate - 25:12
Rubbish or Not: Christmas crackers - 48:33
What is the scrunch test? - 53:33

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

21. How sustainable is having a baby?

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 04:00:00 +0000

James has recently (and we mean very recently - like a week ago), become a father! This led him to think about the sustainability of having a baby and what steps he would put in place as a new dad to ensure his child grows up with a strong sustainability education. Plus, in this baby special, we explore how nappies are recycled, are wet wipes rubbish or not, and James has a question for Robbie.

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow them 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 nappies recycled? - 11:04
How sustainable is having a baby? - 20:49
Rubbish or Not: Wet wipes - 40:00
What advice would Robbie give James about fatherhood - 43:16

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

20. How to make packaging from seaweed, with Pierre Paslier from Notpla

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 04:00:00 +0000

This week, James and Robbie are joined by Pierre Paslier, co-founder of Notpla, a groundbreaking company turning seaweed into sustainable alternatives to plastic. After winning the prestigious Earthshot Prize in 2022, Notpla has been making waves in the fight against plastic pollution. In this episode, Pierre shares the fascinating journey from experimenting with caviar-inspired ideas in a kitchen to creating innovative packaging solutions now used in everyday takeaway boxes and cups. Get ready to be inspired by this story of creativity, science and impact!

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow them 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

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

19. Breaking down compostable plastic

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 04:00:00 +0000

Compostable plastic has grown significantly in the past few years as producers of packaging attempt to move away from conventional plastics. Why is this material so hard to collect and recycle? Plus, we explore how electrical items are collected, are rubber bands rubbish or not, and we have a question about what to do with beer bottle lids.

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow them 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 electrical items collected? - 11:11
Breaking down compostable plastic - 18:50
Rubbish or Not: Rubber bands - 45:25
What should we do with beer bottle lids? - 50:03

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

18. The true cost of deals - Black Friday’s environmental impact

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 04:00:00 +0000

It's that time of year again, Black Friday. Where did this manic sales season come from and how sustainable is it? In this episode, we discuss the growth of Black Friday and what the rise in online deliveries might be doing to our carbon emissions. Plus, we explore the history of pallets, are duvets and pillows rubbish or not, and we have a question about whether we ruined our recycling by turning it into Halloween decorations.

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow them 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

17. Disposable vapes finally going up in smoke

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 04:00:00 +0000

Disposable vapes are set to be banned by June 2025, but with an estimated 150 million still in circulation until then, what happens to these devices once they’re tossed in the bin? In this episode, we dive into the life cycle of a disposable vape and the environmental impact of improper disposal. Plus, we explain what you should do with waste wood, are books rubbish or not, and we have a question about why we need to sort metal if it can be extracted from the incinerator anyway.

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow them 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

16. Burn or bury - how rubbish is incineration?

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 04:00:00 +0000

Recent reports suggest that it is better to landfill our waste, rather than sending it for incineration. Can this possibly be true? In this episode, we dive into the nuances behind these reports, examining some key flaws in both the data and assumptions. Plus, we explore how flexible plastic could replace wood, whether credit cards can be recycled, and we have a question about what to do with the plastic film on top of food trays.

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow them 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

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

15. Fun recycling campaigns, with Alex Robinson from Hubbub

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 04:00:00 +0000

James and Robbie spend some time with Alex Robinson, CEO at Hubbub, a creative charity that inspires action that’s good for the environment, and for everyone. Hubbub's fun and innovative campaigns support individuals, households and communities to make a difference, by helping everyone get involved and building mainstream support for action on climate. Hubbub was named 'Charity of the Year' by Charity Times in 2023.

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow them 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

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

14. Halloween sustainability - the scoop on pumpkins

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 04:00:00 +0000

Welcome, ghouls and goblins, to a spooky special of Talking Rubbish! This week, we explore the truly terrifying statistics behind the Halloween pumpkin. Plus, we will unravel the alchemy of chemical recycling, discuss what happens to that Halloween costume after the party and reveal some sustainable decoration ideas.

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they treat you to a hauntingly helpful guide for a greener Halloween, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow them 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

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

13. Is recycling flexible plastic worth the effort?

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 04:00:00 +0100

Supermarkets are now collecting flexible plastic packaging, asking us to bag it up and return it. But with reports suggesting much of it ends up being burned, is our recycling effort going to waste? In this episode, we dive into why it's still worth recycling flexible plastic. Plus, we explore how plastic is mechanically recycled, whether cables can be recycled, and we have a question about glass recycling, does it get melted twice?

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow them 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

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

12. Which plastics have been banned and why?

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 04:00:00 +0100

Over the past couple of years, the UK government has banned certain plastics, from straws to balloon sticks. Find out the impact these bans can have and how they drive behaviour change. Plus, how are plastics sorted, can plastic toothbrushes be recycled, and why do some councils recommend lining food waste caddies with regular carrier bags?

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow them 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

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

11. Are we really eating a credit card of microplastic weekly?

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 04:00:00 +0100

It’s a statistic reported in lots of places: each week we supposedly eat a credit card’s worth of microplastic. But, is it true? Plus, the final three types of plastic, can blister packs be recycled and what happens to the lime that is pushed in a beer bottle?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Stanisecond 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 get exclusive videos and clips, follow them 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

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

10. Making refill easy with Nick Torday from Bower Collective

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 04:00:00 +0100

James and Robbie have a chat with Nick Torday, co-founder and CEO at Bower Collective, a B Corp pioneering refill in the home. Bower Collective deliver cleaning and personal care products in plastic pouches, which are used, sent back and refilled before being sold to another customer. The conversation covers a wide range of potential issues and solutions in the world of packaging refill and reuse.

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow them 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

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

9. Why are cucumbers wrapped in plastic?

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 05:00:00 +0100

Easily the question James and Robbie get asked the most, 'why are cucumbers wrapped in plastic?'. A cucumber episode has been promised since episode one and it's finally time to answer the question! Plus, what types of plastic are out there, can pouches be recycled and which bin should shredded paper go into?

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow them 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

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

8. Who's really paying for your recycling?

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 05:00:00 +0100

Every time we put out our bin for recycling, there is a cost. Currently, local councils pick up this bill but soon it will shift to the brands who sell us products. How will this work and what will it mean for us? Plus, how are the metals recycled, which bin do receipts go into and James has a question from his mother-in-law.

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow them 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

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

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

7. How green is a Taylor Swift concert?

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 05:00:00 +0100

James has just got back from the Taylor Swift concert in London, how sustainable was the event? Plus, how are the metals sorted, can kitchen paper be recycled and are we going to see other changes in packaging because of EU rules?

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow them on Instagram, TikTok, X 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

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

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

6. How can we make refillable packaging work?

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 05:00:00 +0100

Most of us want refillable packaging to work, but it seems to have continual bumps in the road, with trials getting cancelled and consumers struggling to engage. What have we learned from the trials that have taken place and what can they tell us about the future of refill? Plus, how is glass recycled, which bin do photographs go into and is it better to use a bottle bank or your home recycling bin for glass?

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow them on Instagram, TikTok, X 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

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

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

5. Ending the plastic cotton bud, with Natalie Fée from City to Sea

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 05:00:00 +0100

James is joined this week by Natalie Fée, founder of environmental charity City to Sea. James and Natalie have a wide ranging discussion, exploring; how Natalie managed to get all the retailers to switch their cotton buds to cardboard, reuse trials, plastic recycling and waste incineration.

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X 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

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

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

4. The surprising truth behind the carrier bag charge

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 05:00:00 +0100

Why has the carrier bag charge not actually led to a reduction in plastic? Plus, how is glass sorted, can birthday cards be recycled and are the infamous cardboard Olympic beds better than more long term materials?

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow them on Instagram, TikTok, X 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

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

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

3. Do the Olympics fuel packaging use?

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 05:00:00 +0100

Do we all use more packaging when major sporting events are on? Plus, how are cardboard and paper recycled, can cork be recycled and should you use a plastic bottle to store flexible plastic before recycling?

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow them on Instagram, TikTok, X 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

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

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

2. Why coffee pods aren't that bad

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 06:00:00 +0100

Discover why coffee pods may not be that bad for the environment after all and how they can get recycled. Plus, how are cardboard and paper sorted, can aerosol cans be recycled and do you need to take tape off wrapping paper?

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow them on Instagram, TikTok, X 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

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

1. Why are bottle caps suddenly attached?

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 06:00:00 +0100

Discover why bottle caps are suddenly tethered to drinks bottles and how this can help with their recycling. Plus, how is waste actually collected, can pizza boxes be recycled and why does council guidance not always align to national messaging?

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow them on Instagram, TikTok, X 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

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

Welcome to Talking Rubbish

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 09:00:00 +0100

Join award winning sustainability experts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they talk absolute rubbish. Expect detailed discussion around some of the biggest topics in the world of waste, exposing some serious mistruths along the way, whilst having a load of fun.

To get exclusive videos and clips, follow them on Instagram, TikTok, X 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

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL