26/01/09 - Recycling Update

Cllr Vera Tomlinson Supporting The Recycling Scheme

Overall Recycling Rates

I am delighted to confirm recycling rates are currently is 48% of municipal waste and 47.2% of household waste (Promise 49 indicator).  Our aim is to reach 50%, for which the recycling scheme is being extended to cover flats which should push the total up further.  This is in stark contrast to when Labour ran the Council, with the recycling rates at a pathetic 16%.

Plastic Bottle Recycling

The recycling sacks for plastic bottles are literally just that: For bottles. We can accept any size, colour, thickness or type of plastic as long as it is bottle shaped (i.e. with a neck). I know there are many other plastic items out there that are the same polymer-type as many bottles but we have been specifically asked for bottles only and in these troublesome times, with economic markets declining further, we must be able to pass on the plastics we get for recycling and, as long as we keep the quality good, we can ensure they are recycled. 

Additional Recycling Boxes

People can always request additional boxes. Each household is entitled to two as standard and we will replace breakages and losses free-of-charge. Also, if people are stuggling with just two, we are often able to provide extras at no cost as long as it is a genuine requirement. If people would like to purchase extra to keep materials separate or just for occasional storage, then they can do so. All of these services are available via the StreetSmart Contact Centre (44 55 01).