Title

COUNCIL TAX

'Smart bins' and tax cuts could help increase recycling rates - report

Local authorities could use ‘smart bins’ and council tax cuts to help drive up recycling rates in their areas, a new study has suggested.

Local authorities could use ‘smart bins' and council tax cuts to help drive up recycling rates in their areas, a new study has suggested.

The new report by the Social Market Foundation (SMF) said the use of bins fitted with waste sensors could allow councils to record household recycling rates.

This information would help local authorities plan more efficient rubbish collection routes, which would lead to savings.

The report said these savings could be passed on to residents who recycle the most through council tax cuts.

Chief economist at the SMF and author of the report, Scott Corfe, said: ‘Local government needs to explore how new technologies – including smart bins – can dramatically drive up recycling rates and reduce waste.

‘To get households on board with the green agenda, it is important that carrots are used, as well as the occasional stick.

'A council tax rebate for households that do their bit for the environment by not producing as much as waste would be a good reward for doing the right thing.'

COUNCIL TAX

Cuts have hit council financial information, report finds

By Neil Merrick | 22 August 2025

Councillors and members of the public are not being presented with accurate or easy to understand information about local authority budgets, a report has found.

COUNCIL TAX

Calls for fair funding tax flexibility

By Martin Ford | 22 August 2025

The Government has been urged to lift the council tax referendum limit to help local authorities hit by the fair funding review.

COUNCIL TAX

Dealing with the rising tide crisis

By Wayne Scott | 21 August 2025

Wayne Scott explains why public sector leaders must plan for supplier failure.

COUNCIL TAX

Fair funding must reflect real need – not just population growth

By Cllr Tracey Dixon | 21 August 2025

Any fair funding formula must reflect not just how many people live in an area, but the depth and breadth of their needs, says the leader of South Tyneside C...

Popular articles by William Eichler