Waste

Somerset Council Waste Services is responsible for managing household waste and recycling across the county, serving more than 270,000 homes. The service includes kerbside collections for recycling, food waste, and general rubbish, alongside recycling sites that accept a wide range of materials. Through initiatives like Recycle More, the council has expanded the types of materials collected, including pots, tubs, trays, cartons, and small electricals, helping Somerset achieve one of the highest recycling rates in England. Waste that cannot be recycled is sent to an energy-from-waste plant, generating electricity for the national grid and supporting a circular economy. The council works closely with contractors to optimise collection routes, reduce carbon emissions, and trial innovative projects.

Building a Sustainable Future and Careers in Waste

Waste services in Somerset are not just about collections, they are central to the county’s sustainability goals. The council invests in eco-friendly fleets, community engagement programmes, and education initiatives to promote waste reduction and reuse. Working in this sector offers opportunities in operations, logistics, data management, and community outreach, all contributing to climate action and resource efficiency. Careers range from frontline collection roles to strategic positions in waste policy and sustainability, making it an exciting field for those passionate about protecting the environment and driving innovation.

Somerset Council – Bins, recycling and waste [External Link]