Reading Misses Recycling Target as South Oxfordshire Leads Nation

Reading is falling just shy of England’s national recycling target, according to the latest government figures for 2023/24, with some nearby councils pulling well ahead.

Data released by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) reveals significant differences in how much household waste is being recycled across the south of England. While the national average sits at 44%, some councils are exceeding that by a wide margin — and others lagging far behind.

South Oxfordshire District Council leads the way for the second consecutive year, recycling 62.9% of its household waste. Close behind are the Vale of White Horse (60.7%) and Dorset Council (60.5%).

By contrast, councils like Portsmouth (27.9%), Gosport (26.3%), and Slough (24.9%) are well below the national average. Slough, which neighbours parts of Berkshire, has one of the lowest rates in the country.

In Berkshire, just three councils are currently meeting the target set in 2020 to recycle at least 50% of household waste:

Bracknell Forest – 55.7%
West Berkshire – 53.4%
Wokingham – 55.4%

Reading Borough Council recorded a recycling rate of 49.8%, narrowly missing the target. Nearby Windsor and Maidenhead also fell short, recycling 49.1% of waste.

The wide variation in performance is down to a mix of factors, including population density, housing types, and the amount of garden or organic waste being collected.

While Reading’s figures show progress, the close miss highlights the need for further improvement if the town is to meet future environmental goals and keep pace with neighbouring authorities.