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Spelthorne Council investigates food waste collection
Published 19.06.2008 09:10
Following the successful introduction of the new rubbish and recycling collection arrangements, the Council is now looking at food waste with a view to introducing a collection service in 2010/11. The Council has very much appreciated residents’ support and co-operation during the introduction of the new arrangements.

After requests from residents, the Council is now looking at collecting food waste. This can increase recycling rates by between 4 and 5% and trials are continuing in other Surrey districts. The Council will be closely following these.

Data shows that food waste makes up around 50% of all waste but collecting it is not straightforward as much food is thrown away unopened. The average family wastes around £420 a year on food that is discarded.

Residents see food waste as a major issue in relation to the alternative weekly collection – one week rubbish, one week dry recyclables.

At present residents are encouraged to throw as little food waste away as possible and to wrap it securely before disposal. There has also recently been a promotion of discounted composters to deal with food waste and the Council will continue to encourage their use.

An initial outlay of £500K, which will be raised from Council Tax receipts, would be needed to set up the service – most of the money being used on specially adapted vehicles. Around two-thirds of the Borough would be covered – with flats generally excluded.

Cllr Gerry Forsbrey, Portfolio Holder for the Environment commented: “There is a need to introduce a scheme in 2010 to meet the 40% recycling and composting target set out in the Joint Municipal Waste Strategy. We also cannot meet Government landfill targets without a county-wide food waste collection service. Our current recycling percentage is 30-33% and collection of food waste, alongside an enhanced garden waste collection system which we are also planning, will greatly help reach the target”.

For more information contact the communications team on 01784 444260/446297

To order food digesters online contact www.greencone.com