Talking Rubbish - The Recycling Podcast

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.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.Sign our very first pootition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/pooWe would love you to join our community on DiscordSpecial thanks to our sponsor, EcosuretyTo get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcastOr 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 WhatsAppRelevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.eeTranscripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish websiteTimestamps:Why excessive packaging is illegal - 2:11Additions and corrections - 26:53Rubbish or Not: cheese wax - 34:14Rubbish News - 42:10Why do fizzy bottle threads have gaps in them? - 48:17Residual Rubbish - 52:20 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

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?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.To vote for James and Robbie in the Resource Hot 100, please use the links below: James and RobbieSign our very first pootition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/pooWe would love you to join our community on DiscordSpecial thanks to our sponsor, EcosuretyTo get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcastOr 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 WhatsAppRelevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.eeTranscripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish websiteTimestamps:How landfills actually work? - 4:29Additions and corrections - 31:13Rubbish or Not: sandwich packs - 38:59Rubbish News - 42:43Can tape go in the soft plastic bin? - 49:09Residual Rubbish - 52:18 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

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?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.To vote for James and Robbie in the Resource Hot 100, please use the links below: James and RobbieSign our very first petition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/pooWe would love you to join our community on DiscordSpecial thanks to our sponsor, EcosuretyTo get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcastOr 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 WhatsAppRelevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.eeTranscripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish websiteTimestamps:Why does your glass bottle contain microplastics? - 2:31Additions and corrections - 28:47Rubbish or Not: cocktail sticks - 36:15Rubbish News - 40:29Do we need to put a bin liner in our general bins? - 47:55Residual Rubbish - 52:57 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

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.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.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/pooWe would love you to join our community on DiscordSpecial thanks to our sponsor, EcosuretyTo get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcastOr 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 WhatsAppRelevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.eeTranscripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website  Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

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?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.Sign our very first petition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/pooWe would love you to join our community on DiscordSpecial thanks to our sponsor, EcosuretyTo get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcastOr 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 WhatsAppRelevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.eeTranscripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish websiteTimestamps:Carbon offsetting - 2:01Additions and corrections - 29:16Rubbish or Not: Ozempic pens - 37:51Rubbish News - 42:40Do we need to remove the security tag from packaging? - 47:00Residual Rubbish - 48:46 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

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?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.Sign our very first petition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/pooWe would love you to join our community on DiscordSpecial thanks to our sponsor, EcosuretyTo get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcastOr 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 WhatsAppRelevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.eeTranscripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish websiteTimestamps:Can festivals be sustainable? - 4:35Additions and corrections - 33:43Rubbish or Not: disposable BBQs - 38:06Rubbish News - 41:24Should reusable bottles contain ocean bound plastic? - 46:26Residual Rubbish - 52:51 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

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?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.Sign our very first petition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/pooWe would love you to join our community on DiscordSpecial thanks to our sponsor, EcosuretyTo get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcastOr 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 WhatsAppRelevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.eeTranscripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish websiteTimestamps:How to improve recycling in flats - 1:25Additions and corrections - 28:34Rubbish or Not: pens - 36:48Rubbish News - 44:47What happens to the rubbish in skips? - 50:38Residual Rubbish - 55:17 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

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?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.Sign our very first petition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/pooWe would love you to join our community on DiscordSpecial thanks to our sponsor, EcosuretyTo get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcastOr 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 WhatsAppRelevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.eeTranscripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish websiteTimestamps:Greenwashing - 1:32Additions and corrections - 34:53Rubbish or Not: jigsaw puzzles - 40:19Rubbish News - 43:14Is recycled plastic worse for human health? - 48:45Residual Rubbish - 53:42 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

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.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.We would love you to join our community on DiscordSpecial thanks to our sponsor, EcosuretyTo get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcastOr 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 WhatsAppRelevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.eeTranscripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website  Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

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?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.We would love you to join our community on DiscordSpecial thanks to our sponsor, EcosuretyTo get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcastOr 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 WhatsAppRelevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.eeTranscripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish websiteTimestamps:How are mobile phones recycled? - 10:45Should the Government control our packaging? - 17:41Rubbish or Not: staples - 47:49Do aluminium cans really contain plastic? - 50:34 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL