Despite over 40 per cent of all household waste now being reused, recycled or composted*, a survey has revealed that misconceptions around domestic waste remain.

The survey, conducted by food packaging manufacturer Sharpak, asked respondents to rank a list of domestic waste items in order of their perceived environmental impact.

The results revealed that consumers placed food packaging trays in the top three ‘most harmful’ materials after cellophane and plastic carrier bags.

However, according to Trefor Owen, environmental manager at Sharpak, this is very much a misconception.  

“Food packaging trays are the least harmful of all the materials listed, as they incorporate post-consumer waste and are recyclable. What’s more they help to reduce food waste by preserving freshness and extending shelf life.”

“The results of our survey show the perception of carrier bags is also far from the reality. The fact is that many carrier bags can be returned to stores for recycling or used multiple times.

“It is clear that there is a need for better awareness of packaging materials and their ability to be recycled. Much progress has been made in their design and manufacture, so that the carbon footprint is reduced – this needs to be communicated better so that consumers can make more informed purchasing decisions and better manage their domestic waste and recycling.”

Respondents were asked to rate food packaging trays, cardboard, cellophane, nappies and cotton wool, paper, cans, plastic bottles, glass and carrier bags in order of their carbon footprint.

*  ‘Household rubbish recycling rates top 40%’, 04 February 2011, Localgov.co.uk, http://bit.ly/recyclingrates