Council Secures Refund Over Faulty Recycling Bags That Crumbled

North Somerset Council has successfully secured a refund from the supplier of thousands of red recycling bags that began falling apart shortly after distribution.

Following a positive trial involving 6,000 households in late 2024, the council introduced new red bags for plastic and metal recycling to all households across the area in March 2025. However, many residents noticed that the bags quickly faded to white and started disintegrating, especially when exposed to sunlight.

Annemieke Waite, the council’s cabinet member responsible for waste management, confirmed during a recent online Q&A that after extensive negotiations, the company accepted full responsibility and agreed to refund the council for the defective bags. “It’s a very good outcome for us,” Waite said. “They have completely accepted they were at fault and are reimbursing us for all the bags.”

The initial trial bags did not experience these problems and were generally well received, although some users found them too large. For the full rollout, the council ordered smaller bags from the same reputable supplier. Unfortunately, these bags deteriorated rapidly, sparking dissatisfaction among residents. Waite explained in a November meeting, “They are literally falling apart at the seams. We have been in extensive discussions with the supplier and were not happy with the product quality.”

Residents with damaged bags can request replacements through the council’s website, though a warning advises that replacements are sourced from the same batch and may also degrade if left in sunlight. Bags that are faded but intact may continue to be used, with storage recommendations to keep them out of direct sun. Severely damaged bags should be disposed of in the black bin during the regular collection cycle.

Thanks to the council’s efforts, households experiencing issues with their recycling bags have clear guidance and can expect improved service moving forward.