Talking Rubbish - The Recycling Podcast
James Piper, Robbie Staniforth
Show overview
Talking Rubbish - The Recycling Podcast has been publishing since 2024, and across the 2 years since has built a catalogue of 101 episodes, alongside 1 trailer or bonus episode. That works out to roughly 90 hours of audio in total. Releases follow a weekly cadence.
Episodes typically run thirty-five to sixty minutes — most land between 51 min and 59 min — and the run-time is fairly consistent across the catalogue. None of the episodes are flagged explicit by the publisher. It is catalogued as a EN-language Education show.
The show is actively publishing — the most recent episode landed 1 weeks ago, with 26 episodes already out so far this year. The busiest year was 2025, with 52 episodes published. Published by James Piper, Robbie Staniforth.
From the publisher
"Toast this pair who are trying to make a difference one rubbish episode at a time" - The Independent If you think recycling is boring, think again. James and Robbie are here to prove that recycling is not only important but also downright fun! Ever wondered what happens to the lime in a recycled Corona bottle? Or, why a cucumber needs to be wrapped in plastic? The answers may surprise you. James does the research, while Robbie brings his unfiltered knowledge to the table, making for an unexpectedly entertaining deep dive into the weird and wonderful world of recycling. From busting myths to answering the wildest questions, you’ll laugh, learn, and maybe even rethink what you toss in the bin. “Eye-opening stuff and only rarely dry” - The Guardian "Who knew rubbish could be so interesting" - Radio Times "This podcast will make you smarter and greener" - The i "Full of handy, informative insights" - Heat
Latest Episodes
View all 101 episodes100 episodes later...still Talking Rubbish
99. Why cartons aren't being recycled
98. Should we ban ‘plastic-free’ packaging?
97. Why we're getting reusable packaging wrong
96. How recycling is really funded
95. The tech that could end overpackaged boxes, with Jude Pullen
94. From Kindle to kindling - how Big Tech creates waste
93. The death of the barcode - a win for sustainability?
92. How the war in Iran is reshaping the plastic market
91. Is the Government driving up plastic use?
90. Inside Netflix's 'The Plastic Detox' - the story beyond the screen, with Eric Isaac
Ep 8989. Is palm oil really that bad?
Palm oil has a notoriously bad reputation; mention it, and you’ll likely hear strong criticism, particularly if you manage the social media of a podcast that very recently discussed Cadbury’s Easter egg packaging. But is the story really that simple? In this episode, we take a closer look at palm oil; what’s driving its environmental impact, why it’s so widely used, and what can realistically be done about it. Plus, are plastic air fresheners rubbish or not, why are cardboard cartons going in the plastic bin, and why might a paid tier of Talking Rubbish get us in trouble? Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish. Please take a moment to complete the Simpler Recycling tracker We would love you to join our community on Discord Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address [email protected] or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232 Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website Timestamps: Is palm oil really that bad? - 02:10 Additions and corrections - 31:22 Rubbish or Not: plastic air fresheners - 38:54 Rubbish News - 42:46 Why are cardboard cartons going in the plastic bin? - 47:29 Residual Rubbish - 50:58 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL
Ep 8888. The truth behind ‘lost parcel’ reselling - scam or goldmine?
What happens to the parcels that never reach their buyers? A growing industry has an answer, reselling them as “mystery packages,” promising hidden treasures and unbeatable value. But do these surprise boxes live up to the hype, or are they too good to be true? In this episode, we unpack the world of parcel resellers to find out whether they offer a genuine solution to waste, or simply sell the illusion of a bargain. Plus, are floss picks rubbish or not, should we squash our packaging, and what is James having to confess to Robbie? Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish. Please take a moment to complete the Simpler Recycling tracker We would love you to join our community on Discord Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address [email protected] or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232 Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website Timestamps: The truth behind ‘lost parcel’ reselling - 01:50 Additions and corrections - 33:32 Rubbish or Not: floss picks - 39:43 Rubbish News - 42:48 Should we squash our packaging? - 47:22 Residual Rubbish - 51:30 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL
Ep 8787. Is expensive petrol driving people to electric cars?
As tensions rise in Iran, global oil prices are climbing, with potential knock-on effects for everyday costs. From higher petrol and diesel prices to wider economic pressures, the impact is becoming more noticeable. But could this moment mark a tipping point for electric vehicles? In this episode, we dive into the realities of EV ownership; unpacking range anxiety, upfront and long-term costs, and the true environmental footprint. Are electric cars really the greener, smarter alternative to traditional engines, or is the picture more complicated than it seems? Plus, are ice packs rubbish or not, is a hand dryer better than paper towels, and why might the new owners of Robbie's house be unhappy with him? Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish. Please take a moment to complete the Simpler Recycling tracker We would love you to join our community on Discord Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address [email protected] or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232 Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website Timestamps: Is expensive petrol driving people to electric cars? - 2:17 Additions and corrections - 30:42 Rubbish or Not: ice packs - 35:28 Rubbish News - 36:54 Is it better to use a hand dryer or paper towels? - 50:09 Residual Rubbish - 53:59 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL
Ep 8686. Netflix's 'The Plastic Detox' - what it gets right (and what it misses)
On 16 March 2026, Netflix released 'The Plastic Detox', a documentary examining the health impacts of chemicals commonly found in plastics, particularly phthalates and BPA. In this episode, we unpack the science behind the film, reinforcing many of its conclusions while also exploring the gaps that prevent it from presenting a fully balanced scientific narrative. Plus, are plug-in air fresheners rubbish or not, which Easter egg will we be buying this year, and why is a road closure making James think about recycling. Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish. We would love you to join our community on Discord Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address [email protected] or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232 Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website Timestamps: Netflix's 'The Plastic Detox' - what it gets right (and what it misses) - 2:05 Additions and corrections - 31:13 Rubbish or Not: plug-in air fresheners - 36:42 Rubbish News - 41:44 Which Easter egg would we buy? - 46:10 Residual Rubbish - 54:43 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL
Ep 8585. Talking rubbish...with the man who collects it, the No. 1 Binman
With more than 160,000 followers on TikTok, Ashley might just be the most famous binman in the UK. In this episode, we sit down with the biggest binfluencer to talk about life on the rounds and how he built an online following by sharing the realities of the job. We also take a closer look at how bin collections actually work across the UK and hear first-hand what makes the job rewarding, challenging, and sometimes surprising. Ashley shares practical tips on how households can make life easier for refuse crews, reduce contamination in recycling, and play their part in helping waste services run smoothly. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at a vital public service that most of us rely on every week, but rarely think about. Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish. We would love you to join our community on Discord Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address [email protected] or by texting them via WhatsApp, our number is 07356 069 232 Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL
Ep 8484. The BrewDog forest - climate solution or greenwashing?
In 2020, BrewDog made headlines with a bold promise; to plant Scotland’s largest forest and become the world’s first carbon-negative beer company. Five years later, the land has been sold, the carbon-negative pledges have quietly vanished, and the company itself is fighting for survival. So what happened? This week, we dig into the rise and fall of BrewDog’s ambitious reforestation project, and ask whether the planned forest was ever quite as sustainable as it claimed. Plus, are tree guards rubbish or not, are food waste disposal units a good idea, and does Robbie have slopey shoulders? Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish. We would love you to join our community on Discord Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address [email protected] or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232 Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website Timestamps: Was the Brewdog forest greenwashing? - 2:30 Additions and corrections - 31:51 Rubbish or Not: tree guards - 37:27 Rubbish News - 46:45 Are food waste disposal units a good idea? - 50:56 Residual Rubbish - 54:26 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL
Ep 8383. Is climate collaboration illegal?
In October 2025, five US state attorneys general wrote to environmental organisations warning that their collaboration efforts could potentially breach antitrust laws. Their argument: consumers should retain the right to choose packaging even if it harms the environment. This week, we unpack what happened, explore the key differences between US and UK competition law when it comes to companies working together on green initiatives, and examine what organisations can do to protect themselves from similar legal challenges. Plus, are triggers rubbish or not, how would we listen to our own podcast, and why has Robbie been embarrassed by a comedy gig? Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish. We would love you to join our community on Discord Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address [email protected] or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232 Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website Timestamps: Is environmental collaboration illegal? - 2:18 Additions and corrections - 30:14 Rubbish or Not: triggers - 35:22 Rubbish News - 42:07 How would we listen to our own podcast? - 47:21 Residual Rubbish - 50:46 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL
Ep 8282. Is there a teaspoon of microplastics in our brains?
Last year, a study made startling headlines around the world with the claim that the average person carries the equivalent of a plastic teaspoon of microplastics in their brain. But how accurate is that finding, and if it’s questionable, why did the authors present it with such confidence? This week, we explore the challenges scientists face when measuring microplastics and nanoplastics in the human body, and why even peer-reviewed research published in the world’s most respected journals can sometimes get it wrong. Plus, are pumps on things like hand soap rubbish or not, does EPR penalise colour in plastic, and why is Robbie's window full of rubbish?Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.We would love you to join our community on DiscordSpecial thanks to our sponsor, EcosuretyTo get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcastOr you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address [email protected] or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.eeTranscripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish websiteTimestamps:Why microplastics are so hard to measure - 1:35Additions and corrections - 27:45Rubbish or Not: pumps - 36:22Rubbish News - 41:06Does EPR penalise colour in plastic? - 46:20Residual Rubbish - 53:25 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL
Ep 8181. The sudden rise of food waste bins
Simpler Recycling promises the biggest shake-up to the UK’s recycling system since kerbside collections began. But despite ambitions for nationwide consistency, exemptions mean some councils may take a different path. In this episode, we unpack the policy’s origins, examine why not everyone will have to follow the same rules, and look ahead to what the future of recycling might actually be. Plus, are contact lenses rubbish or not, is refillable packaging still considered packaging, why is James siding with Michael O'Leary?Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.We would love you to join our community on DiscordSpecial thanks to our sponsor, EcosuretyTo get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcastOr you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address [email protected] or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.eeTranscripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish websiteTimestamps:Why we all suddenly have food waste bins - 2:29Additions and corrections - 30:46Rubbish or Not: contact lenses - 38:37Rubbish News - 43:14Is refillable packaging still considered packaging? - 47:39Residual Rubbish - 52:17 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL