Surge in recycling as new service unfolds

5.25.44pm GMT Fri 7th Dec 2007

The new waste collection service has led to a surge in recycling, Richmond Council has announced, with 40 % of the borough's waste being recycled in the first two weeks.

Since November 5, residents have recycled more waste than ever - equivalent to the weight of 12 double-decker buses - compared to the same period last year. The Council would like to thank all residents for both their patience and support for the service which is now settling in across the borough as crews get used to their new rounds and residents become clearer about their collection arrangements. Under the new system, residents can recycle plastic bottles and cardboard for the first time, in one of the most comprehensive, source-separated, kerbside collection services in the UK.

Cllr Martin Elengorn, Cabinet Member for Environment on Richmond Council, said: "This was a massive change which we introduced after major public consultation. We are delighted with the increased participation in recycling which has resulted and I would like to apologise to those residents who have experienced problems during the first two weeks. Our aim of increasing the recycling rate to 40 per cent and beyond can only be achieved by working with local people. That is what we have done, and while the initial response has exceeded our expectations, it now needs to be maintained. It is particularly pleasing that many residents appear to be recycling for the first time. I would like to thank residents for their patience during the initial transition period and for their support and enthusiasm for the new service. Credit must also go to staff for their hard work introducing the biggest reorganisation of its kind for years. We believe that some residents had been saving their cardboard and plastic bottles ahead of the service launch so it may be some weeks before we can measure the real effect. The early signs are that it's been a success, and we can look forward to increased recycling rates and less waste sent to landfill, which makes us more sustainable and, ultimately, saves taxpayers' money."