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Local authorities

We’re here to support local authorities with evidence and expertise to drive circularity at a local and regional level, to deliver economic, social and environmental benefits for Scotland’s communities.

Why circularity matters

Why should circularity matter to local authorities? There are lots of reasons, but the overriding one is prosperity. A more circular local economy will deliver future-proofed economic activity which is more resistant to global shocks, less damaging to the planet and doesn’t exhaust our finite resources. At a local level this will safeguard prosperity for businesses, people and therefore the local authority as well. That prosperity comes in the form of economic benefits, social benefits and environmental benefits. 

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How we can support you

  1. Recycling - providing evidence to maximise capture, quality and efficiency to increase material value

  2. Reuse - providing guidance and evidence to maximise social and economic gains from re-use

  3. Clean heat - support for local heat and energy efficiency strategies

  4. Place-based circular economy support - evidence, tools and networks for driving circular economic activity at a local level.

Support and funding

Zero Waste Scotland is here to support local authorities to make your communities more circular. Support is available across a range of areas from a place-based approach, to construction and clean heat. Check out more on our support and funding page - along with links to some other organisations offering relevant support.

Funding and support available

Our communications support

Our resources aim to inspire and mobilise the people of Scotland to embrace longevity in our products and a vision where waste is a notion of the past. Filter through our content based on your audience, specific campaigns, the type of resource you need, or even the topic that interests you. 

Partners site

Zero Waste Scotland’s Recycling Sorter is a free, easy-to-use digital tool that helps you find out what items can be recycled and which bin they go in, based on your local authority. It’s designed to cut through confusion and support better recycling habits across Scotland by offering clear guidance and practical tips. Make sure to email us on to update us on any changes. 

Recycling sorter

Want to stay in the loop on everything from waste prevention to circular economy breakthroughs? Sign up for our e-zine and get inspiring circular stories, recycling wins, industry updates, and key dates delivered straight to your inbox.

Full Circle e-zine
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Latest news

Stay connected and never miss a beat, sign up for our e-zines packed with the latest updates, stories, and insights. Join our engaging webinars to hear directly from experts and be part of the conversation shaping our work. Stay informed, stay inspired and be part of the journey to becoming more circular.

Keep up to date

Knowledge hub

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  • Evidence & Insights
A women throwing waste into a counter

Trialling Recycling Interventions to Increase Food Waste Collections

03 Feb 26 3 minutes
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  • Evidence & Insights
  • Resources
illustrated items to be recycled

5 Ways to Maximise Recycling

03 Feb 26 5 minutes
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  • Evidence & Insights
A purple bin and blue bin outside a block of flats

Urban Recycling in Scottish Cities

27 Jan 26 2 minutes
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  • Evidence & Insights
two people sorting recycling in to relevant household bins

Promoting household recycling (Local Authority communications best practice report)

27 Jan 26 2 minutes
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  • Evidence & Insights
A man emptying a small household bin into a larger household waste wheelie bin

Recycling Services Report (a Residents' Perspective)

27 Jan 26 3 minutes
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  • Evidence & Insights
a sign for garden waste sitting in a recycling centre

Household Recycling Charter Code of Practice Communications Review

27 Jan 26 2 minutes
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