The Right Infrastructure for Simpler Recycling Success

As the countdown to Simpler Recycling continues, much of the discussion has centred on the logistics of new collections. Yet, as highlighted in the recent metroSTOR webinar with ReLondon, legislation alone will not deliver higher recycling rates. The success of the Simpler Recycling reform will depend on how well waste and recycling infrastructure is planned, equipped and maintained, particularly in flats and communal housing, where constraints are most acute.

From policy to practice

ReLondon’s research shows that recycling in flats lags significantly behind its potential. Almost two thirds of material placed in all residual bins could be recycled, with food waste the largest single fraction. In flats specifically, this figure rises to a whopping 94% of food waste still thrown away with general waste rather than recycled. Capture rates in flats remain stubbornly low and too often, the spaces provided for residents to dispose of their waste work against their behaviour, rather than with it.

In the webinar, Liz Horsfield and Shelley Holmes stressed the importance of the Ease, Knowledge, Motivation model. Residents recycle when it is easy, when they know what to do, and when they feel motivated to take part. Translating this into practice is dependent on planning and provision of the right infrastructure; bin stores that are accessible, safe, clearly signed and supported by ongoing communication.

Making recycling easy

Easy access is crucial to improving capture rates and preparing for the Simpler Recycling deadline in April 2026. Residents should not face broken doors, cramped corners or overflowing containers; none of this makes recycling feel easy or appealing. Instead, clean, well-lit bin rooms with clear layouts make the act of recycling simple. ReLondon’s Flats Recycling Package demonstrates this vividly, with before-and-after examples where confused, cluttered spaces were re-planned into inviting, well-organised bin areas. The result was more material captured and far less contamination.

Similar metroSTOR case studies, supported by impact data, show again, the benefit of clear, attractive and easy to use recycling areas. In the London Borough of Hounslow, recycling rates increased by 40% in just one year after new waste infrastructure was installed to make bin stores more accessible and resident-friendly following high-rise chute closures.

Building knowledge

The webinar also underlined that communication about Simpler Recycling is as important as the containers themselves in improving rates, with signage being one of the most simple but effective interventions. 

Pictorial and colour-coded labels reduce hesitation and help residents act correctly in the moment. Some projects shared by Re-London even used floor markings to guide people through bin stores.

Of course, effective communication is ongoing. For landlords, this means that tenant packs need to remain up to date, reminders need to be scheduled and walkabouts with staff or residents will help to reinforce recycling expectations. Each small intervention builds knowledge and keeps recycling visible in the day-to-day life of an estate.

Creating motivation

ReLondon’s research has shown that residents are more willing and motivated to engage in the right recycling behaviours when the environment feels safe and cared for. Good lighting, ventilation and regular cleaning give bin stores a sense of order and respect. Engagement activities demonstrate that resident participation matters and is valued. 

From insight to action

As April 2026 approaches, housing providers have a clear opportunity; bin stores should be seen as essential infrastructure for successful recycling. By ensuring that they are easy to use, clearly communicated, safe and motivating, landlords and councils can turn policy into cleaner sites, more satisfied residents and real progress towards sustainability targets across our towns and cities.