Argyll and Bute Council’s Waste Strategy Consultation attracted almost 1000 responses, with 96% agreeing that ‘reduction, reuse and recycling’ is the best method of managing waste.
The feedback gathered over the course of the six-week consultation has been used to develop the updated Argyll and Bute Council Draft Waste Strategy, which can be viewed online at http://bit.ly/2mcLiKU
Three key themes were explored in the consultation. As well the ‘reduction, reuse and recycling’ theme, consultees were asked for their views on the proposed Scottish Deposit Return Scheme, and the upcoming ban on Biodegradable Municipal Waste going to landfill.
On the Deposit Return Scheme, 85% of responders to our consultation said they supported the idea and would participate in the scheme, which would see a 20p deposit applied to aluminium, steel, glass and plastic drinks containers as part of plans to combat climate change and support recycling on the go. They also highlighted a desire that the scheme is designed to be fully compatible with rural and island living.
And in regards to the ban of Biodegradable Municipal Waste going to landfill, 91% of responders felt that we should continue negotiation with the Scottish Government to enable compliance with the upcoming ban, indicating that the public has a clear understanding of the unique challenge faced by Argyll and Bute Council in complying.
Councillor Ellen Morton, Depute Policy Lead for Roads and Amenity Services, said: “We’re really pleased with the excellent response rate for this consultation and thank everyone who took part. We’re trying to find different ways of tackling Argyll and Bute’s waste. Our new Waste Strategy must ensure we comply with the Scottish Government’s upcoming ban on Biodegradable Municipal Waste going into landfill, and also ensure we can continue to provide a high quality and cost effective service on behalf of our residents and businesses.”
Responses to the consultation identified a need for clearer guidance on what can be recycled, and more information on waste services overall. This will be developed going forward.