Fortnightly collections increase recycling rates by 50%

The recycling rate in Cardiff has risen by more than 50 per cent since the introduction of a fortnightly bin collection service.

More than half of all household waste is now being recycled according to figures published this week. In the same quarter last year (2011), the recycling rate for household rubbish was just 12 per cent, and the rise is being attributed to the switch from weekly to fortnightly black bag collections – introduced in September 2011.

The scheme received criticism from tenants across Cardiff but these figures appear to support the move and councillor Rodney Berman is pleased with the results, stating that people had “embraced” the change.


Councillor Margaret Jones, executive member for environment, said: “This is a very significant achievement for Cardiff council and its residents and we’re delighted with the progress made so far.

“I thank the residents of Cardiff for working with us to make the recycling collection changes such a success. The results are fantastic so far, and I hope we can all work together to ensure we keep improving and building on this excellent set of figures.”

The executive body that rules Cardiff council said that the city is now on track to exceed the government recycling targets, and that the reduction of waste being sent to landfill could save the city £1.3million this year and in 2013.

Council leader Rodney Berman said: “This is the biggest jump in recycling figures we have ever had.

“We need to thank the people of Cardiff as a whole – it’s down to the fact that they have embraced this change that we have seen such an impact.”