Record amounts of waste recycled

A RECORD amount of food waste was recycled in January by residents across Rhondda Cynon Taff – but the council said more needs to be done.

In January, RCT Council recycled 1,062 tonnes of food waste, but they could face fines if overall targets aren’t reached.

In 2016.17 64% of the county’s overall waste was recycled, above the current Welsh Government target, but the council say more needs to be done to hit an increased 70% target by 2024/25.

If the target isn’t reached the council could face “significant” fines.

Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s cabinet member for environment and leisure Councillor Ann Crimmings said: “More people are listening to the Council’s message and supporting a green future, and it’s encouraging to see food waste recycling increase alongside our progress with dry recycling.

“We have seen our overall recycling rate improve significantly over recent years and our current rate of 64%, first achieved 2016, represents a marked improvement from the 45% figure in 2010/11.

“However, in order to hit and maintain the 70% target by 2024/25, a new focus is required, which is why the Council is introducing the new rules on June 4.

“Food waste is commonly found in residents’ black bags when, in fact, it should be recycled. “Therefore, recycling more food items will further reduce black bag waste – which is what the Council is promoting through its new rules.

“While food recycling has been rising steadily in recent months, there is always room for more improvement to boost our overall recycling target.”

From June 4 new rules will be introduced aiming to increase recycling by reducing household’s fortnightly black bag allowance.

A ‘no side’ waste rule will be introduced for people with wheelie bins and a two-bag limit for those who don’t, reduced from the current allowance of four.

The council said food recycling rates are usually higher over Christmas and New Year.