Residents across the Lancaster district will be able to do their bit towards tackling climate change when a new scheme is introduced in November.
Over the next few weeks food waste recycling will be introduced by Lancaster City Council across the district in a new scheme whose launch was delayed when handling centres elesewhere in the County failed to open on schedule earlier in the year.
Throughout November the majority of households will be receiving a kitchen caddy to put their food waste in. Once full, it can be emptied into your green garden bin – and properties unable to accommodate green garden bins will be delivered an outdoor caddy.
You can start using your kitchen caddy as soon as you receive it. Once processed the mixture of food and garden waste will produce compost that can be used in parks and gardens.
Food waste, both cooked and uncooked, that can be recycled includes meat, bones and carcasses, plate scrapings, fish, dairy waste, tea and coffee grounds, bread and pastries and fruit and vegetables.
Coun Jon Barry, Cabinet member with responsibility for Environmental Services, said: “Food waste makes up approximately 25% of household waste. When sent to landfill food waste produces methane – a very harmful greenhouses gas that contributes towards climate change. By recycling your food waste you can help reduce the waste we send to landfill and help reduce the effects of climate change.”
Food waste recycling has already successfully introduced by many other areas, and many more are planning on doing so. In developing its scheme, Lancaster City Council looked at other successful schemes, including one run by Preston City Council.
Council officers will also be attending ‘listening days’ in Lancaster, Morecambe and Carnforth to answer questions on the council’s food waste and recycling schemes.
While many people don’t mind recycling for example, many have criticised schemes which use too many recycling bins, complicating the process for householders. Others have decried the number of bins issued, especially householders with small yards.
These events are taking place as follows:
• Morecambe: October 19th at the Arndale Centre, 10.30am to 2pm
• Lancaster: October 21st at Marketgate shopping centre, 1pm to 4.30pm
• Carnforth: October 22nd at the Civic Hall, 1pm to 4.30pm
• For more information, including frequently asked questions, visit www.lancaster.gov.uk/bins