Recycling vox pop: friend or foe?

New recycling services sweep through Cardiff

Typical Cardiff street post new services

Cardiff is aiming to reach its recycling targets, starting with reforming waste and recycling services. Residual waste has seen a significant reduction in the first few weeks of the new system, according to Cardiff Council media advisor, Alastair Love.

The introduction of the new services on 12 September saw general collections changed to every two weeks, urging residents to take the opportunity to recycle more. Overall, the service has been working well showing a positive performance early on, with support being offered online to those who need further advice.

With the council claiming Cardiff is adjusting well to the changes, how have the new recycling and waste collection services affected the people of Cardiff and South Wales?

How has the introduction of the new recycling and waste collection services affected you?

Gezma Marina, 25, employed, Cardiff

“It has affected my family, my wife and two little girls, having the collections over two weeks. We produce a lot of rubbish, so have a lot of black bags.”

Linda Fox, 64, retired, Carmarthen

“There is a lot of it to do, a lot of bags. But, I think we are getting used to it.”

Mr Batton, 76, self-employed engineer, Pontypridd

“Luckily we haven’t changed over to the new services yet. I’m happy to recycle, I don’t mind doing it, but I’d be very unhappy if my services changed.”

Christine Day, 45, nurse, Cardiff

“I think it’s better actually. It’s fine as long as I keep my husband and daughter in check; I’m the one telling them what needs to be recycled!”

Tracey Cookson, 41, flute teacher, Cardiff

“I don’t mind it at all, because I have always recycled. We are organised, and we have a compost heap, and a dog!”

Bethan Tregoning, 23, paediatric nurse, Carmarthen

“It’s not much of an effort to put stuff in different bins really. I do have an increase in the bins outside my house, but it doesn’t bother me, it’s a small price to pay to save the planet!”

Alison Court, 26, Customer Assistant, Neath

“As a family of four, we are struggling with the fortnightly collections due to having a very small bin. Even with all recycling sorted through; we still find the bin overflows. The idea of dirty nappies sitting outside my house for two weeks is really worrying!”

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