Waste reduction plans agreed by OIC
(Story dated: September 12, 2003)

Orkney Islands Council look set to apply for Scottish Executive funding to enable a variety of recycling projects in Orkney.

The proposals include new civic amenity sites, kerbside collections, composting initiatives and the appointment of two additional members of staff.

On the waste prevention proposal two main initiatives are being suggested; the development of a new Orkney Zero Waste Centre and a major Green Cone Initiative which will seek to recruit 3,500 households throughout the county. The distribution of 3,500 Green Cones is expected to prevent 650 tonnes per annum entering the waste stream by 2005/06.

Another key proposal is the development of two new state-of-the-art amenity sites in the West Mainland area and at Cursiter Quarry, near Finstown. This would allow the recycling of 600 tonnes of material every year.

Other proposals include kerbside collection of recyclables, major improvements to the existing windrow composting operation and a proposal to provide six new mini recycling areas to remote parts of Orkney.

In all, an additional 1,350 tonnes would be recycled by 2005/06 if all the proposals are implemented - bringing a recycle total of 3,199 tonnes per annum or 29 per cent of the total municipal solid waste generated in Orkney. This surpasses the Scottish Executive's national target of 25 per cent.

Councillor Ann Sutherland, Chairperson of the EPPS Committee said:

"This will be a major achievement for the Council and a reflection of our seriousness to tackle our environmental obligations. Ironically because Orkney has such a good record in recycling not all projects which are outlined in the plan may attract support from the Executive. However we are confident that Ministers will look favourably upon our application not least because Orkney's environment is one of our key natural assets and very much worth preserving.

"The Council is committed to investing in providing a range of recycling options for people but we need close co-operation with residents and businesses to ensure the system works correctly. It is in all of our interest to ensure Orkney maintains its image as a clean and environmentally friendly place."

A formal bid has been submitted to the Strategic Waste Fund totalling £1.354 million with associated ongoing revenue costs of £250,000 per annum.