77. Is recycling a scam? episode artwork

EPISODE · Jan 15, 2026 · 57 MIN

77. Is recycling a scam?

from Talking Rubbish - The Recycling Podcast · host Robbie Staniforth, James Piper

“It’s all burned. It’s all shipped to Turkey. Recycling is a myth.”We hear these claims all the time, that our carefully sorted waste ends up in landfill or incinerators, and that recycling is basically pointless. But how much of that is actually true? This week, we dig into the reality behind the headlines. Where does our recycling really go? Does cleaning and sorting your waste make any difference at all? And is there still a reason to bother? We debate the myths, unpack the facts, and, spoiler alert, aim to leave you feeling hopeful that looking after your rubbish is still worth the effort. Plus, are tea light candle holders rubbish or not, is a dead battery still a fire risk, and why is a $4,000 deposit return scheme not working for the litter on Mount Everest?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 [email protected] or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232Relevant 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:Is recycling a scam? - 02:08Additions and corrections - 31:53Rubbish or Not: tea light candle holders - 41:02Rubbish News - 43:00Is a dead battery still dangerous? - 49:16Residual Rubbish - 52:11 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

“It’s all burned. It’s all shipped to Turkey. Recycling is a myth.” We hear these claims all the time, that our carefully sorted waste ends up in landfill or incinerators, and that recycling is basically pointless. But how much of that is actually true? This week, we dig into the reality behind the headlines. Where does our recycling really go? Does cleaning and sorting your waste make any difference at all? And is there still a reason to bother? We debate the myths, unpack the facts, and, sp...

NOW PLAYING

77. Is recycling a scam?

0:00 57:35

No transcript for this episode yet

We transcribe on demand. Request one and we'll notify you when it's ready — usually under 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of Talking Rubbish - The Recycling Podcast?

This episode is 57 minutes long.

When was this Talking Rubbish - The Recycling Podcast episode published?

This episode was published on January 15, 2026.

What is this episode about?

“It’s all burned. It’s all shipped to Turkey. Recycling is a myth.”We hear these claims all the time, that our carefully sorted waste ends up in landfill or incinerators, and that recycling is basically pointless. But how much of that is actually...

Can I download this Talking Rubbish - The Recycling Podcast episode?

Yes, you can download this episode by clicking the download button on the episode player, or subscribe to the podcast in your preferred podcast app for automatic downloads.
URL copied to clipboard!