Devon recycling centre 'chaos' predicted over new rules

Pinbrook Road Recycling Centre in Exeter
-Credit: (Image: DCC)


New rules that will mean people can only take upholstered furniture to just under half of the recycling centres in Devon is predicted to cause 'chaos'. From December, Environment Agency (EA) regulations will demand sofas, armchairs and furniture be stored and transported separately from other non-recyclable waste.

The reason given by the EA for changes is because of toxic chemicals in the form of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) found in upholstered furniture. However, critics opposing the new rule have argued waste is all burned in the same incinerator.

Devon County Council says that when it comes into force, fewer recycling centres would be able to accept upholstered furniture due to a lack of space with extra costs to the council of about £110,000 every year.

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Roger Croad, cabinet member for waste and recycling at Devon County Council, told the BBC that out of 19 recycling centres across Devon only eight would be able to accept upholstered furniture from December.

He called the regulations 'nonsense' and said: "We're going to see a bit of chaos I think. I'm at a complete loss as to the Environment Agency's rationale here."

The EA regulations were introduced from January 2023 but authorities were given until December 1, 2024, to comply.

An EA spokesperson told the BBC: "Separation of waste containing POPs minimises contamination with other waste and makes these toxic chemicals easier to trace in the environment."

The spokesperson added 'most' local authorities had already introduced segregation of materials and it expected all councils to do the same.