What are Wheelie bin tags/chips?
The tags or chips fitted into the wheeled bins are not “measuring devices”, they are simply an electronic way of identifying a wheeled bin with a ‘scanable’ ID number. The bin is referenced to the property as it is issued. This is no different from the existing situation where each bin has been stamped with a unique serial number and that number is recorded to each property as it is issued. The purpose of the tag is purely for container management purposes. It is not possible for local authorities to charge for waste collection under the existing legislative framework. Should the Government seek to change the legislation to enable charging for waste collection, then it would be possible to use the tags to allow suitable technology attached to collection vehicles, to weigh and record weight of collection. This is no different to having a water, electricity, gas meter recording consumption leading to a bill to the end-user.
