England’s recycling rate has stalled, but there are some signs of progress

The latest recycling league table is out, and the picture is mixed.

According to the recently released Annual Recycling League Table for England (2024/25), overall recycling performance has declined slightly to 43.8%, down from 44.0% the previous year. While it’s a marginal dip, it reinforces a broader challenge: maintaining momentum towards England’s 50% recycling target.

At the same time, there are clear signs of progress in specific areas.

Separately collected food waste increased by 6.7% in 2024, reaching 535,000 tonnes. Closer analysis shows that growth was consistent across every quarter, suggesting sustained improvements in both participation and capture rates.

With the first phase of Simpler Recycling now in force, we expect that this upward trend will continue as more consistent collection systems are rolled out across England.

At the top end of the table, performance remains strong. Stratford-on-Avon District Council (63.9%), Milton Keynes Council (63.2%) and South Oxfordshire District Council (61.3%) lead the way, setting the benchmark for recycling performance across England.

For many councils, the focus now is on turning steady progress into sustained performance, ensuring gains are built on year after year.

How did your local authority perform? If you’d like to climb the rankings next year, our team would love to support those plans. Call 01291 440 750 or email sales@endurancevs.com

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