Plastic fantastic! Bin bags are back

Eight months ago residents were told they could only get rid of waste food in newspapers or special compostable bags when using the kerbside caddies.

But now, after trials at Dacorum Borough Council’s composting centre, bosses have ruled that plastic bags do not have a negative effect on the way food is recycled.

However, residents can still wrap food waste in newspaper and the compostable liners, but are asked not to place food in plastic trays, containers or in any other plastic wrapping in the caddy because it will not be collected.

This means people are now able to re-use plastic bags they already have in the house, and do not have to buy compostable bin liners from the council’s civic centre or supermarkets.

Councillor Janice Marshall, portfolio holder for environment and sustainability, said, “We are keen to offer a food recycling service that is easy and convenient to use and the choice of using plastic bags should encourage everyone to continue using the service.

“We have recycled 2,204 tonnes of food waste so far.

“Dacorum’s food waste is made into a liquid fertiliser for agricultural land use and biogas (carbon dioxide and methane) which is then used to produce electricity.”

For more information, visit www.dacorum.gov.uk/foodwaste

What do you think? Is this a victory for common sense, a backwards step or a waste of time?

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