In Australia, waste bins play a crucial role in efficient waste sorting and management, as well as environmental conservation. Different types of bins, such as general waste, recycling, and organic waste bins, help proper sorting and disposal of different waste materials. Proper sorting promotes recycling and minimises landfill waste, contributing to sustainability efforts and reducing the environmental impact of waste disposal.
For teachers, parents, and caregivers, it’s more important than ever to teach children about the significance of waste management. We’ve created a waste sorting worksheet to engage kids in a fun and educational activity that can help them understand the importance of waste segregation.
With this worksheet, kids can embark on a journey to explore the different types of waste. These interactive exercises and colourful illustrations can help kids understand the different categories of waste, including organic, recyclable, and non-recyclable materials.
Let’s dive into this waste-sorting adventure and embark on a journey toward a more sustainable future!
RED BIN
The red bin is designated for non-recyclable waste that cannot be composted or reused and needs to be sent to the landfill. This includes items such as food-contaminated packaging, broken glass, light bulbs, cosmetic containers, vacuum dust (covered), mirrors, gloves, ceramics, styrofoam, used tissues, and certain types of plastics that cannot be recycled.
In addition, hazardous materials like batteries, chemicals, and electronic waste should not be disposed of in the red bin.
YELLOW BIN
Your yellow-lidded bin is collected fortnightly and is for recyclable items, which are taken to a facility to be sorted into their different material types. The yellow bin is for recycling materials such as paper, cardboard, plastics, and metals.
Items like newspapers, magazines, cereal boxes, cardboard packaging, plastic (PET) bottles, containers, and metal cans can be placed in the yellow bin for recycling. It’s essential to ensure that these items are clean and free of any food residue to prevent contamination.
GREEN BIN
Your green-lidded bin is collected fortnightly and is used for disposing of organic waste such as fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, tea bags, eggshells, yard trimmings, grass clippings, leaves, plant trimmings, and food-soiled paper products like napkins and paper towels.
This waste is biodegradable and compostable, resulting in nutrient-rich soil. Items such as meat, dairy, oils, and pet waste should not be placed in the green bin as they can easily attract pests and slow the composting process.
BLUE BIN
The blue bin is for recyclable materials. Accepted items commonly include paper (such as newspapers, magazines, office paper), cardboard, glass bottles and jars, aluminum and steel cans, plastic containers (numbered 1-7), milk and juice cartons, and clean pizza boxes.
It’s important to check with local recycling guidelines as they may vary by region. Generally, items like plastic bags, soft plastics, polystyrene foam, and hazardous materials should be kept out of the blue bin.
Yellow Bin
Your yellow-lidded bin is collected fortnightly and is for recyclable items, which are taken to a facility to be sorted into their different material types (e.g. glass, paper, steel and plastic). One yellow bin is allocated to each separated or individual household while residents in multi-unit dwellings (apartments) share larger bins.
