The number of plastics accepted in yellow kerbside bins will be reduced to only the ones which can be recycled onshore from December 1, the Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) has announced. 

Only plastic numbers 1, 2 and 5 - which make up the majority of plastic recycled in New Zealand - will be accepted for recycling. 

Plastic packaging with the numbers 3, 4, 6 and 7, along with bottles made from coloured plastic type 1 (PET), meat trays, punnets, biscuit trays and pizza boxes will no longer be accepted for recycling in the yellow kerbside bins.

“By opting for high-value plastics which can be processed right here in New Zealand, we can be confident in a clear supply chain and improved environmental and social outcomes,” QLDC property and infrastructure general manager Peter Hansby said.

The change is being made to align with New Zealand’s commitment to move away from hard-to-recycle plastics and to contribute towards better regulation of the international trade in plastic waste, Peter said.

There are a number of ways residents can get ready for the changes, including by considering simple swaps to avoid this type of packaging altogether.

“Next time you’re doing your grocery shopping, take a quick look in your trolley and see if you could swap plastic for glass or tin which can be easily recycled,” Peter said.

“Make it part of your shopping routine to check which numbers of plastic you are currently buying to get familiar with the plastic number code. If you are purchasing numbers 3, 4, 6, 7 or bottles made from coloured plastic type 1 (PET), meat trays, punnets and biscuit trays, consider how these could be reduced or replaced.” 

Council is also no longer accepting pizza boxes as they cannot be recycled due to grease and food contamination - only clean cardboard and paper can be made into new products.   

“Making these simple changes as well as being conscious about the way you recycle have a big impact on the environment,” Peter said.

Residents will soon be receiving an information pack outlining the changes. Further details can be found here.

PHOTO: Supplied