One month on: new recycling and waste service hits major milestone

November 27, 2025

Initial data shows food waste recycling has doubled, black bin waste is falling, and the overall recycling rate is now expected to exceed 50%

Resident feedback has been overall positive, with further improvements still being made to overcome initial teething issues 

Downloads for the app have surpassed 34,000

One month on and residents in Southend are wheelie getting to grips with the new enhanced Recycling and Waste Service - and the results are already impressive. 

This week, crews will collect the one-millionth bin - a major milestone in the rollout. With recycling rates now expected to exceed 50%, this achievement highlights the scale of the operation and the commitment of over 65,000 households.

The new service is helping residents recycle more and waste less: 

Food waste recycling has surged by 76%, jumping from an average of 13.5 tonnes per day before the change to almost 24 tonnes per day now. This increase is reflected in the high demand for food caddies. 

Anecdotal feedback from crews is that black bin waste has fallen significantly, a downward trend that shows residents are embracing recycling.

Recycling of paper, card, glass, cans, and plastics is also up, with the overall rate estimated to exceed 50% (official audited figures will be available in three months).

Councillor Lydia Hyde, Cabinet Member for Climate, Environment and Waste, said: “We want to thank all Southend residents who are making a real difference by recycling more and reducing waste.  

“Together, we’re helping Southend move towards a cleaner, greener future. Collecting the 1 millionth bin milestone is a fantastic achievement, and exceeding the 50% recycling mark is a real testament to everyone’s efforts. 

“We know that there is still further work to be done, to improve the missed bin collections as well as continuing to separate plastics and cardboard, that can still be made to drive up recycling rates even further in certain areas.  

“It is also fantastic to hear such positive feedback from residents who have noticed less litter on the streets, with fewer split bags or windblown rubbish.” 

If you have any questions about the new service, please check the Council's Waste Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), which are updated regularly to keep residents informed.