Why sharing matters
Effective partnerships rely on good communication. By sharing data, messages, and networks, local authorities and recycling organisations can build stronger relationships, coordinate their efforts, and increase their impact in the community.
Here are three key ways that sharing makes sense.
1. Sharing data
National government, local authorities, and plastic recycling organisations often share the same goals:
- Protecting the environment
- Reducing greenhouse gas emissions
- Safeguarding public health
- Creating decent, dignified jobs
By collecting good data, you can show how plastic recovery activities contribute to these goals over time.
Useful data to collect might include:
- Areas affected by litter or illegal dumping
- Quantity and types of plastic collected and recycled
- Number of households involved in collection
- Number of apprentices (including age and gender)
- Skills gained through training
- Improvements in staff wellbeing or livelihoods
Sharing this kind of data builds trust, demonstrates impact, and helps everyone set clear, shared targets for the future.
2. Sharing messaging
When residents hear the same clear message from both the local authority and the recycling organisation, they’re more likely to listen and take action.
Work together to agree on a few simple, consistent messages such as:
- Don’t dump or burn plastic waste
- The [name of organisation] collects rigid plastic from [location] every Tuesday
- This service is supported by XXXX Council to help protect our shared environment
Stick to these core messages and repeat them often – familiarity builds trust and helps people remember.
3. Sharing networks and channels
The local authority will already have ways to reach the community – such as public meetings, town criers, radio, or Facebook.
Plastic recycling organisations will have their own methods – maybe word-of-mouth, local events, posters, or Instagram.
Each channel reaches a different group of people, so working together means you can reach more people overall.
Keep the message clear, consistent – and keep repeating it.
