National fridge freezer recycling shortage starts to impact the district

A shortage of specialist facilities across the country has been made worse following a major fire at a processing facility near Huddersfield last month.

Lou Redpath, Service Director for Environmental Services, said: “This is affecting councils all over the country. Many have already had to stop accepting fridge freezers, due to the lack of capacity to safely store them before recycling treatment

"We’re working really hard, with our partners Biffa, to find a temporary storage solution that will allow us to continue accepting them.

“Right now, storage space is very limited. We’re still taking fridge freezers at your local Household Waste Recycling Centre but wherever possible we’re urging people to store, recycle or get retailers to take them away.”

The alternative options are

Store unwanted appliances safely at home, where possible, until national recycling capacity improves.

Use retailer take-back schemes. Most retailers offer a service to collect and recycle old appliances when delivering a replacement.

Consider repairing appliances. Spare parts such as drawers, shelves and seals are often inexpensive and easy to source online.

Reuse appliances that are still in working order by donating them to charity or offering them through second-hand websites and community groups.

The Council and Biffa currently handle around 230 fridge freezers every week.

Mrs Redpath added: “We know people don’t want to have unwanted appliances hanging around.

“But if you are paying someone to remove your waste, please make sure they are licensed waste carriers to avoid fly tipping.”

Anyone who arranges for waste to be removed remains legally responsible for ensuring it is disposed of correctly.

The industry is warning that the national shortage of storage facilities could extend into 2027. Wakefield Council and Biffa will continue to monitor the situation closely

A Biffa representative said: "We are working with local authorities and industry partners to identify safe solutions.

“Residents can help by using retailer take-back services when purchasing replacement appliances and by considering reuse or repair where appropriate."

Follow Wakefield Recycles on Facebook for updates or sign up to Your District for latest news.