Waste

Recycling is more than just a habit—it’s a commitment to a sustainable future!

At Aberystwyth University, Biffa is dedicated to collecting our general waste and recycling, supporting the Welsh Government’s “Net Zero” strategy. Their goal is to enhance waste recyclability and recovery rates. Discover more through their guide on the new recycling regulations; the new recycling regulations..

LAS Recycling takes care of our glass and food waste. By segregating your food waste, LAS helps reduce the environmental impact of our university, meet sustainability targets, and cut down on collection costs. Similarly, by separating glass waste, we can boost recycling rates and lower waste management expenses. Learn more about LAS and their collection service.

Let’s follow these guidelines to recycle effectively throughout Aberystwyth University and make a real difference together!

Recycle your unwanted clothes and textiles

Clothes banks are conveniently located at:

PJM Car Park, just beside the Amenity block
Cwrt Mawr Car Park, opposite Cwrt Mawr L
Outside Cledwyn Building on Penglais Campus

Your contributions are collected by The Salvation Army to be recycled and given a new life.

Recycle your disposable Vapes

Did you know that vape recycling is now located on the main Piazza on Campus, right outside the Students Union? Simply drop off your used vapes, and Biffa will take care of the rest, ensuring they are collected and recycled responsibly.

Recycling Questions

Have you ever gone to throw something away and suddenly realised you're not sure which bin you should use? Use our FAQ's below to help you choose the best bin for your rubbish.

If you have any further questions, please email the Facilities team on facilities@aber.ac.uk.

Can I recycle a disposable coffee cup like those from Starbucks? What about the coffee cup lids?

Yes – these should be placed into plastic/metal/cartons bins

Can broken glass be recycled?

No – do not place broken glass into glass recycling as it can be dangerous to collectors when they collect them. Instead, put the broken glass into a box and place the box into general waste.

Does shredded paper go into paper recycling?

Shredded paper can be collected by our team of porters along with confidential waste.

Please contact facilities@aber.ac.uk to arrange pick up.

Where can I put unneeded clothes?

Clothes should be placed into the designated clothing donation points around campus unless they contain residues or are contaminated by waste substances, then they should be placed into general waste.

Where should plastic bags be placed?

Plastic bags should be placed into general waste not plastic recycling.

What should I do with black plastic from ready meals?

Black plastic food trays should be placed into general waste not plastic recycling.

Can liquids such as yoghurt and milk go into food waste?

No – food waste does not include waste that is mixed with liquid intended for human consumption.

Where do nail varnish bottles go?

They should be placed into general waste, not glass recycling.

Can I place sweet and biscuit wrappers into plastic recycling?

No – these need to go into general waste.

If in doubt?

Observe the backing boards found on most bins for instruction on what to do with waste and recyclable material, to avoid misplacing any material into the wrong bins.