Residents in North Lanarkshire flats thrive with new recycling service

North Lanarkshire residents living in flats are benefiting from a new and successful household recycling service. Thanks to funding from the Scottish Government’s Recycling Improvement Fund, innovative shared recycling bins have been introduced at 80 locations across the region.

These new bins are specifically designed for paper, cardboard, glass, metal, plastics, and food waste, and have proven to significantly boost recycling levels. Previously, due to contamination issues, the old bins were rejecting up to 70% of materials. However, since the installation of the new bins earlier this year, over 98% of materials are now successfully recycled.

Councillor Helen Loughran, Convener of the Environment and Climate Change Committee, expressed satisfaction with the improved recycling rates, stating that the new bins offer residents a better service and that the quality of recycling has been impressive. She highlighted the benefits of increased recycling, such as reducing carbon emissions, conserving natural resources, and saving costs that can be redirected to other local services.

Residents have been equipped with reusable bags for collecting recyclable materials and transporting them to the nearby bins, along with a handy guide detailing the items eligible for recycling. Councillor Michael McPake, convener of the housing committee, emphasised that these new facilities enable flat tenants to recycle a wide range of household materials, matching the services available to other households.

Notably, the proximity of the new bins to residents’ homes and their redesigned lids ensure that materials stay contained within the bins, maintaining cleanliness and tidiness in the surrounding areas. This enhanced recycling service is expected to boost household waste recycling rates and support the council’s carbon net zero goals.

Overall, the implementation of these new recycling facilities in North Lanarkshire flats represents a positive step towards promoting sustainable living practices and contributing to a greener, more environmentally friendly community.