Oxfordshire has secured the position of England’s leading two-tier county for recycling for the twelfth year running.
Official figures published recently show that 56.6 percent of domestic waste was diverted through recycling, reuse, or composting during 2024-25, from a total volume of 292,738 tonnes.
Approximately 165,694 tonnes were kept out of landfill sites through these recovery methods.
Vicky Beechey, who leads the Oxfordshire Resources and Waste Partnership, stated that the consistent performance delivered collaboratively by Oxfordshire’s local authorities merits acknowledgment, particularly considering the budgetary constraints affecting all bodies.
She added that witnessing the work of ORWP partners and Oxfordshire households continue to appear in these figures illustrates everyone’s commitment to delivering positive environmental results.
She noted that local residents are worthy of commendation and gratitude for their sustained efforts and dedication in reaching this achievement.
Nevertheless, she emphasised that the partnership remains committed to progress, with one area requiring particular attention being the reduction of food waste.
Within England’s two-tier framework, county councils manage waste disposal whilst city and district councils are responsible for kerbside collection services.
Every council within Oxfordshire achieved strong positions in the national comparison.
South Oxfordshire District Council ranked second among 197 waste collection authorities, recording a 61.3 percent recycling rate.
The Vale of White Horse placed eighth with 58.9 percent; West Oxfordshire ranked 16th with 57 percent; Cherwell came 37th with 51.5 percent; and Oxford City Council secured 51st position with 48.2 percent.
Ms Beechey commented that ORWP partners recognise that further efforts are required to improve reuse, repair, recycling, and composting rates.
She suggested that individuals can all play their part by cutting down on food waste, making products last longer, and decreasing the amount of waste produced for the benefit of everyone.
She also mentioned that resources such as the Waste Wizard can help ensure materials are channelled to the correct destination, whether for reuse, composting, or disposal.
Residents using any of Oxfordshire’s seven household waste recycling centres should be aware that advance booking is now mandatory.
Appointments can be booked up to fourteen days in advance or with as little as thirty minutes’ notice via the Oxfordshire County Council website.
Those without internet connectivity can schedule visits by contacting the council’s customer service team on 01865 519800 during operating hours of 8.45am to 5pm Monday through Thursday, and 8.45am to 4pm on Fridays.
Proof of address must be shown on arrival. Valid documents include a driving licence or recent utility or council tax bill.
Visitors travelling from outside the county will be charged £15.