96. How recycling is really funded episode artwork

EPISODE · May 28, 2026 · 59 MIN

96. How recycling is really funded

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

For nearly 30 years, the UK has operated a system designed to make brands contribute towards the cost of recycling through Packaging Recycling Notes (PRNs). This week, we take a closer look at how the system really works, where it succeeds, where it falls short, and what the future of recycling funding in the UK could look like. Plus, is expanded polyethylene rubbish or not, are stickers on fruit and veg compostable, and why is James boring a lot of TikTok?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.If you would like to sponsor the Ecosurety team, their JustGiving page can be found hereWe would like to have an evening Talking Rubbish to celebrate our 100th episode. It will be in central Bristol on the evening of the 25th June, to let us know if you can make it, book your place on EventbritePlease take a moment to complete the Simpler Recycling trackerWe would love you to join our community on DiscordSpecial thanks to our sponsor, EcosuretyTo get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, 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:How brands fund recycling - the truth behind PRNs - 04:08Additions and corrections - 34:55Rubbish or Not: expanded polyethylene - 41:29Rubbish News - 45:02Are the stickers on fruit and veg compostable? - 49:24Residual Rubbish - 54:01 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

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96. How recycling is really funded

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This episode was published on May 28, 2026.

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For nearly 30 years, the UK has operated a system designed to make brands contribute towards the cost of recycling through Packaging Recycling Notes (PRNs). This week, we take a closer look at how the system really works, where it succeeds, where it...

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