4 waste streams that should never be found in your general waste

It’s easy to assume that “general waste” means almost anything can go in the bin. But as UK businesses are encouraged to take a more proactive approach to sustainability and environmental responsibility, this is no longer a useful way for organisations to think about their waste disposal.

England’s Simpler Recycling rules require businesses to separate different types of rubbish, with residual waste (material that can’t be utilised again in any way) effectively becoming the new general waste.

That makes understanding what should never be in general waste particularly important. Here are four waste streams that need special attention and should never be allowed to head to landfill.

1. Batteries

Batteries should never be dropped into your general waste as they contain parts and chemicals that need specialist recycling. If disposed of incorrectly, they can cause a serious safety issue.

Damaged lithium batteries can pose a fire risk when mixed with other waste. Once inside a bin, compactor or collection vehicle, batteries can become damaged, increasing the potential for fires.

Businesses should therefore have a separate process for collecting and disposing of used batteries – something that a responsible waste management company can help with.

2. Electrical equipment

Take a look around the average workplace and you’ll probably find plenty of electrical and electronic equipment. From laptops and monitors to mobile phones, printers, cables and even everyday kitchen equipment – everything has a lifespan and eventually ceases to be functional.

But that doesn’t make the general waste bin their next destination.

Waste electrical and electronic equipment – commonly known as WEEE – can contain materials that can be recovered as well as potentially hazardous substances. It needs to be recycled separately through an appropriate waste stream. 

3. Liquid chemical waste

Cleaning chemicals, paints, solvents, oils and laboratory chemicals should never simply be poured into or placed within your residual waste.

These substances can contaminate other materials and require specialist handling and disposal.

The exact requirements will depend on the substance your organisation is using, so businesses should make sure employees understand the correct disposal procedures and that appropriate specialist collections are available where required.

So, what can go in residual waste?

Residual waste is designed for materials that can’t be placed in your dedicated recycling collections.

Depending on your workplace arrangements, that can include items such as crisp packets, cling film, contaminated food packaging, nappies, wipes, tissues and broken ceramics. Compostable packaging may also need to enter residual waste unless your site has suitable composting facilities. 

Meanwhile, recyclable materials should be correctly segregated. That could mean using dedicated commercial glass recycling alongside paper and card, dry mixed recycling and food waste collection services.

Why proper segregation matters

Separating waste isn’t simply about having more bins. Good segregation can reduce fire risks, help businesses meet their legal responsibilities, recover valuable materials and improve overall environmental performance. The key is making disposal simple for employees. Clearly labelled containers, convenient bin locations and straightforward guidance can all help reduce mistakes.

At Everflow, we can help businesses understand their waste streams and put the right commercial waste collections in place. Because knowing what doesn’t belong in your general waste is just as important as knowing what does.