After a run of guest episodes and milestone celebrations,Jane and Alasdair are back together for a packed news round-up — and there’s plenty to get through.

News Roundup

Taxpayers to fund clear-up of huge illegal waste dumpsHuge illegal waste sites across England — including Kidlington and others — are set to cost millions to clear, all funded by the public. Jane highlights the frustration that taxpayers are footing the bill, while Alasdair questions whether a portion of landfill tax should be ringfenced to deal with these “orphan” sites.

Corby quarry contamination fearsConcerns are growing that contaminated waste from a former steelworks quarry in Corby could be leaching into waterways. Both reflect on how historic waste decisions can resurface decades later — a reminder that landfill is never truly “done.”

Petition to reinstate fortnightly bin collectionsA petition has been launched opposing changes to bin collection frequency. Jane points out that with food waste and recycling services now widely available, less frequent residual collections should be manageable — while Alasdair argues it’s more about behaviour change than burden.

Teamwork lets bacteria consume plastic wasteScientists have discovered that three types of bacteria working together can break down plastics that individual species cannot. Alasdair sees this as a fascinating step forward, though still very early in terms of real-world application.

Cockroaches may help turn plastic into fuelYes… cockroaches. Jane explains how microbes in their gut can break down polystyrene, though not completely — leaving smaller plastic fragments behind. Interesting, but not quite the silver bullet.

Student invents microplastic filter removing 96% from waterA teenager has developed a method using magnetic fluid to remove microplastics from water. Both are impressed — and it’s a great example of innovation coming from unexpected places.

Tool developed to detect recycled plastic contentNew technology can now identify how much recycled content is actually in plastic packaging. Jane notes this could be a game changer for accountability, while Alasdair highlights its potential to support EPR and compliance.

Scientists realise microplastic tests contaminated by lab glovesIn a slightly ironic twist, researchers found some microplastic readings may have come from their own lab gloves. Raises questions about how accurate current data is — and how complex measuring the problem really is.

Germany to reuse 220,000 tonnes of window glassRather than crushing glass, researchers are exploring how to reuse window panes directly. Both agree this is exactly the kind of thinking needed — moving further up the waste hierarchy.

Squirrel filmed vaping in London parkA bizarre but sad story — a squirrel seen vaping after mistaking it for food. A reminder of how litter (and vapes) can impact wildlife.

Villagers plagued by sauvignon blanc fly-tippingDozens of identical wine bottles dumped repeatedly in one village. Jane jokes about recognising the brand, but both agree it highlights ongoing issues with small-scale fly-tipping — and perhaps a mystery worth solving.

Rubbish Rant

This week’s rant covers a mix of frustrations.

First up, Simpler Recycling, which came into force on1st April 2026 — with both noting that while the system makes sense, the narrative around it being “too difficult” for households is wearing thin.

Then there’s the “Exchange for Change” branding for theUK Deposit Return Scheme:

Alasdair isn’t convinced it hits the mark, questioningwhether it will really engage the public — while Jane is slightly less bothered, but not exactly inspired either.

And finally… a brief diversion into electric cars,with Jane sharing the stress of range anxiety and charging — highlighting that while the transition is important, the practicalities still aren’t quite there for everyone.