The challenge set by government to increase Eastbourne’s current recycling rate of 20% to 30% by 2010 will require radical changes to the normal household collection arrangements and the need for all residents to Reduce, Reuse and Recycle their waste. Amongst other options contained within the report the Council will consider improvements to the current service by introducing a weekly kerbside collection for dry recyclables that may include plastic bottles. The benefits of this have been seen in many other Councils with a lessening of residual waste taken to landfill.
Eastbourne Borough Council Cabinet Spokesperson for the Environment, Tourism and Economy, Councillor David Elkin, says, “This is not a do nothing option. The Government requires local Councils to promote the reduction of household waste through reuse and recycling and we have made a commitment to be one of the higher recycling Council’s as soon as we can. To do this however will require radical changes to our collection arrangements and above all, a commitment by residents to support these initiatives. It is no longer acceptable for households to act irresponsibly in managing their waste and anyone requiring another recycling box is encouraged to contact our waste awareness team on 01323 415229 or by email at recycling@eastbourne.gov.uk.”
The Council now proposes to consult further on its spending priorities for 2007/08 and beyond through a Citizens Panel before making any decision on the waste collection and recycling arrangements proposed in the report.
