Guernsey glass recycling warning over plastic bags use

Recycling for Guernsey said glass being put out for collection in plastic bags had become a problem

Recycling officials on Guernsey have addressed "issues" around kerbside collections on the island.

On Wednesday, Recycling for Guernsey said on Facebook that residents must put glass out in designated bags, which are available for free.

However, a follow-up post said its message had "attracted a few comments".

In the second post, Recycling for Guernsey explained it had sent out the message following incidents of glass being put in plastic bags.

People commenting on the first post said they had struggled to get hold of the glass-recycling bags while others criticised the design of the bags, saying they get blown away by strong winds.

Risk of injury

Recycling for Guernsey's post said it was not their intention to make things harder for residents.

It added: "However, there is an issue we need to address, which is glass being set out in plastic bags."

The post said plastic bags were not as strong as the glass recycling bags and could split if they get heavy, meaning recycling crews risk getting injured by broken glass.

Recycling for Guernsey said using plastic bags can cause further issues as the collection crews cannot throw them away, so often end up putting them in the truck along with the glass, meaning sometimes bits of plastic have to be retrieved from broken glass.

The organisation said: "We need to avoid this sort of contamination, because with all recycling quality is important.

"It ensures we get best value, and materials don't get rejected.

"If we do nothing, it will only get worse."

Recycling for Guernsey said anyone who needs a new bag can get one for free at the Household Waste and Recycling Centre at Longue Hougue or from their local parish constables' office.