Millions of households will have to follow strict new recycling rules under a shake-up of rubbish collections.

It’s part of major changes around bin collections which will see some households have to manage four bins or bags.

The Government wants councils to roll out the new collections by next year, though some are already beginning to act.

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One of the major changes will surround recycling, with households asked to spend time separating items more specifically than they do at the moment.

Sandwell Council in the Black Country has contacted residents to explain how the new system will work.

Homes are being provided with a new blue recycling bag, which officials say is weighted so won’t blow away.

Residents “must” separate paper, cardboard and cartons from other recyclable items.

The new bag will be for paper, newspapers, magazines, cardboard and cartons.

While an existing recycling bin will be for glass bottles and jars, food tins and drink cans, plastic bottles, tubs and trays, empty aerosols and foil.

Households are being urged to take note of the new rules so they get it right.

Other councils around the country are set to introduce the new rules as part of Government efforts to boost recycling and make the process of sorting easier for local authorities.

Councillor Keith Allcock, environment boss at Sandwell Council, said: “Separating paper, cardboard and cartons from your other recycling is a key part of the new Simpler Recycling regulations from Government.

“To help with this, we’re delivering the new blue recycling bag straight to your doorstep. Please keep a lookout for your bag – it will be with you by early September.

“Now is the time to start preparing and get into the habit of separating your paper, cardboard and cartons from your glass, tins and plastics.

“These changes will help us recycle more and improve the quality of the materials we collect.”

Sam Dalton, contract manager for waste collection firm Serco said: “The extra capacity that the blue bag will provide alongside the existing recycling (blue lid) bin, will help to drive up recycling rates within the borough and give the residents of Sandwell that little bit more space to recycle efficiently.

“We are proud to work in partnership with Sandwell Council and to support residents with these collection service changes.”