Sustainability Some residents may be experiencing


cognitive decline or difficulty reading long written instructions; therefore, pictures and symbols can be helpful. Consistency is also key across a care


home, using the same style of posters, colours, and messaging in the kitchens, dining areas, and all waste points creates a clear and standardised system. This then helps both staff and residents recognise the recycling instructions quickly and reduces confusion about which bin to use. Also, care home operators should


consider making sure that visual communications are durable. Laminating posters to protect them from spills, cleaning products, and typical wear and tear, allowing them to last longer and remain clear, reducing the need to replace posters regularly and support sustainability efforts. Over time, these small changes will help


build operators to a better recycling system and create a stronger sustainability culture across the home.


Designing for accessibility and clarity For sustainability initiatives to work effectively in a care home, they must be accessible to everyone, not only staff. One important thing to consider is the


physical accessibility of bins. They should be positioned so that residents who use wheelchairs or walking equipment can reach them easily without any discomfort. This may involve ensuring there is enough room around the bins, avoiding putting them in narrow corridors or difficult to reach areas, using bins with easy-lift lids, or open lid bins may help. If recycling areas are too difficult to use or access, people are far more likely just to use the general waste bin. Having recycling points visible is equally


important. They should be strategically placed within a home in high-traffic areas, where waste is common. Having multiple recycling points throughout the home will reduce the likelihood that recyclable waste will end up in general waste simply because the correct bin wasn’t nearby. In addition, making sure staff have


training around recycling practices allows them to help and guide residents when needed. This could include e-learning activities, team meetings, regular tests, in- person buzz sessions or even collaboration with a local environmental charity. Another way to improve accessibility


and participation is to try to engage residents themselves. Some care homes


might introduce small recycling or sustainability activities or sessions, where residents can learn about recycling, reducing waste, and even composting. This can also be embedded in arts and crafts activities, reusing items to support residents’ creativity whilst also building awareness and giving residents a sense of involvement, contributing to the care homes’ environmental efforts.


The Impact of not recycling correctly In the UK, approximately 10 million tonnes of waste is sent to landfill in England each year, according to government figures. This number has reduced considerably compared to previous decades, but the UK still sends more waste to landfill than other European countries. Research shows that 84 per cent of


households unintentionally contaminate recycling bins, a phenomenon known as ‘wish cycling’. This is also prevalent within businesses - if people don’t know how to recycle at home, it’s very unlikely they will follow the correct recycling guidance at work. For businesses, The Environmental


Agency regulates waste, and as of February this year, they charge non-compliant businesses and non-domestic premises £118 per hour for enforcement action related to England’s ‘simpler recycling’ requirements. By being non-compliant, businesses are


exposed to warnings, penalties, fines, and contaminated waste not being collected. This can result in waste building up, attracting pests and disrupting operations as well as having adverse effects on reputation.


Durability and sustainable materials In care homes, sustainability isn’t just about recycling waste, but also about choosing equipment and systems that last longer. Durable and higher quality resources reduce the need for frequent replacements, which then helps to minimise the amount of waste generated, while in the long-term, lowering operational costs. These simple procurement decisions can


play a large role in becoming sustainable. Selecting suppliers who prioritise the environment and have a sustainability- focused ethos can help to reduce landfill contribution and ensure single-use items are avoided, prioritising quality products and sustainable manufacturing processes. An ethos of repairing and fixing items is


also vital. We live in a society where waste disposal is all too often linear. Resources are taken from the environment, made into products and disposed of once they have served their purpose. This is transforming into a circular approach, but increasing a product’s lifetime is key to success. When building a sustainable care home,


major disruption isn’t a necessity. Small, simple changes, such as clearer waste systems, accessible bins, and engaged staff, can make a significant difference. With legislation such as ‘simpler recycling’ shaping how businesses manage their waste, doing the right thing is no longer a choice. Now is the time to start taking proactive steps to keep homes compliant and sustainable. n


SCAN HERE The WRAP website is a useful


resource for recycling guidance for the health and social care sector


Mia Fisher


Mia joined Waste Managed in 2024 as Marketing Communications Executive. She is passionate about sustainability and environmental causes and is keen to promote circular economy principles within a variety of industries.


June 2026 www.thecarehomeenvironment.com 41


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