Scotland's household recycling rate falls to five-year low

Scottish households recycled 42.8% of their waste in 2025, down from 44.3% a year earlier and the lowest level in five years, according to environmental regulator Sepa. A 2010 government roadmap had targeted 70% by last year. Rates vary widely, from 55% in South Ayrshire to 26% in Glasgow and just 18.2% in Orkney.