Belfast City Council Implements New Bin Tagging System

Belfast City Council has introduced a new bin tagging system aimed at improving waste management across the city. The initiative, launched in early August, seeks to encourage residents to properly segregate waste in order to prevent overflowing bins and enhance safety for collection operatives.

The tagging system is part of broader regulations that took effect on August 4, 2025. Under these new rules, bins that do not close fully or that contain plastic liners will receive an amber tag, serving as a first warning to households. According to a recent Freedom of Information request from Belfast Live, the council has already spent over £11,600 on these tags.

In its initial week of implementation, approximately 1,700 tags were affixed to bins that were either overfilled or improperly lined. The tags provide guidance on how residents can adjust their waste disposal practices to ensure proper collection. A spokesperson for the council noted that bins continuing to be presented in violation of the rules will eventually receive a red tag, which signifies that they will not be emptied. This stricter enforcement is set to begin on September 29, 2025.

Objectives of the New Tagging System

Councillor Ruth Brooks, Chair of the council’s People and Communities Committee, emphasized that the change aims to assist Belfast residents in managing their recycling and waste more effectively. She stated, “Many other councils already follow these guidelines. While our crews have always done their best to support households on collection day, we need to take a consistent approach to how bins are presented and emptied city-wide.”

The introduction of the tagging system is expected to reduce the risk of accidents for council staff and align with upcoming operational changes regarding how collection vehicles handle overflowing bins. Councillor Brooks added, “By following these guidelines, households can support a cleaner environment and help our crews deliver what is a very vital but underrated service.”

The council’s initiative reflects a growing trend among local authorities to enhance waste management practices. With the implementation of the new tagging system, Belfast City Council aims to foster a culture of responsible waste disposal, benefiting both residents and the environment.

As the city adapts to these changes, residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the guidelines to ensure a smooth transition. For further updates and information, residents can visit the Belfast Live homepage and sign up for the daily newsletter.