Every few months, Australians are reminded of the recycling crisis gripping the nation.

A country of spotless landscapes is giving way to urban mountains of shattered glass, toxic fires and recycled plastic in landfill.

China's decision to stop accepting our waste and short-sighted policies at home have led to a national crisis. Whichever way you slice it, Australia’s handling of recycling has been poor.

For Australia’s recycling program to be effective, households have to buy into the concept.