Issue - meetings

The Scrutiny Officer explained that the Committee had agreed to undertake a review of effectiveness of the Council’s waste collection and disposal education as part of the 2023-24 Work Programme.  The issue had been raised due to concerns of contamination rates within recycling waste collections, creating additional costs to the Council through contamination charges.

The Committee had sought evidence including the following: Internal enquiries to assess the Council’s existing policies and approach to waste disposal advice and education and the Council’s existing waste collection procedures; an analysis of the current educational material and channels used by the Communications Team; and an evaluation of the current accessibility and reach of the Council’s communication services.

Following the review, the Committee had agreed 11 recommendations.  These had subsequently been accepted by the Executive, and the Committee would review progress made February 2025.

The Strategic Director of Services informed the Committee that two schools, Park Infant & Junior School, Orchard Close, Shirebrook and Glebe Junior School, Hamlet Lane, South Normanton, had invited the Council to attend and provide lessons on correct waste disposal; arrangements to be made.  H. W. Martin Waste Ltd. had recruited a Social Value Officer who would also provide further support to the Council in schools.

A Customers Services week would be taking place November 2024 for community groups and include a stall for the Council’s Recycling Promotor.  Door knocking work was taking place to distribute recycling information.  The annual calendars would be distributed October 2024.

The Chair noted the work had been challenging but worthwhile.  Members were also publishing recycling information on their social media pages.  The Chair stated the calendar was essential as not all residents were digitally able.

The Strategic Director of Services added that while recycling outturns had dropped recently, this was likely due to outside circumstances (wet weather reduced the generation of garden waste).

A discussion was held to improve recycling rates, the cost benefits recycling brings to the Council, the need for residents to use the Burgundy bins correctly, as well as the general reduction in food and drink packaging and legislation such as the Plastic Tax 2023.

The Chair reiterated it was important for Members to push forward the benefits of recycling in their Wards.

Moved by Councillor Phil Smith and seconded by Councillor Louise Fox

RESOLVED that: 1) Members note Executive’s Response to the Review of             Effectiveness of Council’s Waste Collection and Disposal Education;

2)    that Members make its report and findings public, in accordance with Part 4.5.17(4) of the Constitution;

3)    that Officers monitor progress on the recommendations and report in six and twelve months’ time highlighting exceptions to delivery, in accordance with Part 3.6(1) of the Constitution.

The Junior Portfolio Holder for Partnerships, Health and Wellbeing and the Strategic Director of Services left the meeting.