440 tonnes of organic waste collected; Wasteserv addresses mixed collection reports
Wasteserv has said that approximately 440 tonnes of source-separated organic waste has been collected from all localities over the past three collection days, “showing a positive upward trend in every collection.”
It welcomed the results.
“Initial feedback received through the monitoring exercise show that most households are adhering to the practice of taking waste at the right time, in the right bags, and on the right day,” a Wasteserv statement reads. “In cases where the organic bag was taken out after the collection of such waste had already taken place, the organic bags were then collected with the mixed waste collection. It is worth noting that only in these circumstances is the mixing of waste allowed. Such matters were reported on Monday as dual collection was introduced in almost all localities across Malta and Gozo. The objective of such arrangements is to provide a service to the general public to dispose of organic and mixed waste generated over the weekend.”
“In general terms, the principle being adopted is that organic waste is to be collected first, with the other waste streams collected later, on the same day. It is also important that residents do not pile waste bags or different types of waste on top of each other, so that the organic bag is clearly visible to the collector.”
“In certain localities, waste collectors have trucks with two separate compartments, allowing them to collect both organic and another waste stream simultaneously. Hence organic waste is still delivered separately to Wasteserv. Moreover, Wasteserv highlights that upon entering its facilities at the Magħtab Environmental Complex and Sant’ Antnin Waste Treatment Plant, all waste carrier vehicles are weighed, followed by an inspection to check whether the type of waste delivered is in accordance to what has been decalred at the weighbridge. A total of 174 truckloads entered Wasteserv’s facilities on Monday, with 40 per cent of such truckloads specifically for separated organic waste.”
“If mixing of different waste streams is detected, a report is issued and Wasteserv informs the relevant stakeholders of this non-compliance, for any action deemed necessary. Moreover, Wasteserv reserves the right to take action from its end against waste collectors who do not deliver waste according to the company’s site rules and procedures.”
In comments to this newsroom on 31 October, Environment Minister Jose Herrera had said that “as a government, we understand that this is a change in our culture and mentality. It is also an important change to the environment having a direct impact on our lives and the communities we live in.” He had also called on the general public so that more people continue to separate their waste.
Currently, an educational campaign is ongoing whereby stickers are being placed on bags taken out on the wrong day, but fines will eventually begin to be handed out.