New Food Waste Collection Service Launches Next Month: Key Details Unveiled
The upcoming launch of the food waste collection service next month marks a significant step toward enhancing environmental sustainability in the community. This initiative is part of a national mandate, instituted under the Environment Act 2021, which requires local authorities to adopt food waste collection services.
Launch Date and Collection Schedule
The food waste collections in Warrington will commence on March 31. These collections will occur weekly, aligned with the regular black bin collection schedule. For instance, residents whose black bin is collected on Wednesdays can expect food waste pick-up on the same day.
Using the Food Waste Caddy
Residents have received a comprehensive set of tools to facilitate the collection process. Each household has been supplied with:
- A five-litre indoor caddy for daily food waste storage
- A 23-litre outdoor caddy for weekly collection
- A roll of five-litre caddy liners
To use the indoor caddy, simply place a liner inside, add your food waste, and secure the lid to prevent odors. Once full, tie the liner and transfer it to the larger outdoor caddy.
What Can You Include in Your Collection?
A variety of food items can be placed in the food waste caddies:
- Raw and cooked meat, fish, and bones
- All types of fruits and vegetables (raw and cooked)
- Dairy products, such as eggs and cheese
- Bread, pastries, pasta, rice, and beans
- Tea bags and coffee grounds
- Pet food and uneaten leftovers
Items to Avoid Placing in the Caddy
It is important to refrain from placing certain items in the food waste caddies:
- Non-food packaging (e.g., cling film, food trays)
- Pet mess, litter, or bedding
- Liquids and cooking fats/oils
Sufficient Supply of Caddy Liners
If residents start running low on caddy liners, they can simply tie a used liner to the handle of their 23-litre caddy. The council will replace it with a new roll during the next collection.
Hygiene and Pest Control Concerns
The council reassures residents that participating in the weekly food waste collection is hygienic. By separating food waste from general waste, the frequency of collections minimizes the time that waste remains in the main bin, thereby deterring pests and vermin. The new outdoor caddies are also designed with locks to keep animals from accessing them.
With this new food waste collection service, the community can expect to improve recycling efforts while contributing to greener initiatives that align with climate action goals.
