Did other authorities also use enforcement to tackle continued contamination of recycling bins?
The Recycling and Development Manager confirmed that this was the case, although enforcement action was considered as a last resort. A number of steps could be taken beforehand, such as levying a fine or not emptying the bin. Diffculties for residents in knowing which plastics could be recycled. The Recycling and Development Manager acknowledged this and confirmed that work was being carried out nationally to address the issue of packaging. Information on which plastics could be recycled was available on the Council’s website. However, the largest contamination issue was domestic waste being put in recycling bins and a programme of staff training was in progress regarding this. It was AGREED – That it be recommended to Cabinet that the policy relating to the collection of recyclable waste cross contaminated by incorrect materials such as food waste and/or non recyclable items, contained in paragraph 6 of the report, be approved.
