Putting the wrong rubbish in the wrong bin causes recyclable
material to become contaminated and can lead to it being rejected
by our re-processor and ultimately ending up in landfill. This is
why we try to ensure that everybody understands how the kerbside
collection scheme works and how to use it properly.
The causes of contamination
There are many causes of contamination. Sometimes, householders
misunderstand the scheme or are unsure about what to put in which
bin. Councils around the Country operate similar schemes with
slightly different rules, so this is not surprising that holiday
visitors or new residents also make mistakes. Occasionally, bins
become contaminated when passers-by use any available bin left out
on the street for indiscriminate casual dumping.
What we do about it
We try to provide clear information that explains how to use the
scheme. A comprehensive (but not exhaustive) list of what can be
put in each colour bin can been found on our
Sorting Your Rubbish page.
If the recyclable material in your bin is contaminated with
non-recyclable items, then this may affect the collection of your
bin. The refuse freighter crews will carry out checks during the
collection round. (This is why you may have seen them taking a
quick look in your bin.)
They will not collect contaminated bins. Instead, they will fix a
yellow sticker to the bin to notify the householder of the problem,
and note the address. The bin will not be collected until the
contamination is removed.
When it appears that somebody has difficulty with the scheme we
will always try to find out why and see if we can offer any further
information or assistance. If there is no particular reason why a
householder is not putting their waste in the appropriate bin, then
we may need to take firmer action to help maintain the overall
effectiveness of the scheme.
Bin contamination and the law
We will always try to adopt a balanced approach to education and
enforcement.
Our Enforcement Policy sets out how we will decide what approach to
take, but we can take legal action in difficult cases.
Contact us
More information on what you can and can’t put in your blue, green
and black bins
Email:
recycling@waveney.gov.uk
Telephone: 01502 523117
Report a missed/unemptied/uncollected bin online
Email:
refuse@waveney.gov.uk
Telephone: 01502 523 460
In person:
At any Waveney District Council
local office.
Consultation
If you have any ideas or suggestions as to how we can improve our
services or the information we have provided, then we would be
pleased to hear from you. The contact information you require is
detailed
above.