New household recycling facilities for flats have delivered a significant improvement in recycling levels.
Innovative new shared recycling bins for paper and cardboard, glass, metal and plastics, and food waste have been placed at 80 locations.
As a result of contamination, the previous bins regularly saw 70% of materials rejected. Since the new bins were installed earlier this year, more than 98% is recycled.
“The new bins provide a much better service for residents, and the quality of recycling we are seeing in the bins is excellent,” Councillor Helen Loughran, Convener of the Environment and Climate Change Committee said.
“By recycling more, we’re reducing carbon emissions, conserving natural resources and spending less on getting rid of our waste, which can be better spent on other local services.”
Tenants have been provided with a reusable bag for collecting their recyclable materials and taking them to the bins beside their properties, and a guide to the materials that can be recycled. The project was funded by the Scottish Government’s Recycling Improvement Fund.
“For our tenants in flats, these new facilities mean they can recycle the full range of household materials and receive the same service as other households,” said Councillor Michael McPake, Convener of the Housing Committee.
“The new bins are easily accessible for residents as they are close to their homes and the new designed lids mean the materials placed inside stay inside, keeping the area around the bins clean and tidy. This service will help the council increase the amount of household waste recycled and contribute to our carbon net zero ambitions.”