Caerphilly: Monthly bin rounds possible to boost recycling
- Published
Caerphilly has one of Wales worst recycling records
Monthly bin rounds are being considered by one council to boost the area's recycling rate.
A new report says Caerphilly council may cut collections for non-recyclable waste, which is currently fortnightly.
It is hoped the possible introduction of four-weekly collections might help avoid fines for failing to meet new Welsh government recycling targets.
These penalties could amount to about £2m each year.
Collections of recyclable materials will continue on a weekly basis, with residents given new containers for separating paper, cans and food waste, reports the Local Democracy Reporting Service.
Writing in the council's new draft strategy, Chris Morgan, cabinet member for waste, said Caerphilly's performance had "declined" in recent years, necessitating "a shift".
In 2023 the borough recorded a recycling performance of 60.76%, well below the national 64% target and among the worst in Wales.
That national target is due to rise to 70% this year, leaving the council in a precarious position if it fails to improve.
However, even if that target is hit and potential fines avoided, the implementation of its new waste strategy will cost the council an estimated £2.37m over the next two years.
Caerphilly produces "one of the highest levels of residual waste per person in Wales", Mr Morgan noted in the draft report.
"Quick wins" introduced in 2023 - such as free food caddy bags and more education - will still leave Caerphilly just short of the 70% target, according to the council report.
The authority predicts cutting bin collections to three-weekly or even four-weekly rounds will remove the final obstacle in its way.
Meanwhile, food waste and hygienic products will continue to be collected weekly and garden waste fortnightly and seasonally.
Any new changes to bin collections will only be made after a public consultation, which is likely to open in February.
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