Evaluating the performance of a fortnightly collection of household waste separated into compostables, recyclates and refuse in the south of England

Abstract

A new system of waste collection and source separation is reported. Its introduction has precipitated immediate reductions of 55% of waste going to landfill (from 18.1 kg per household per week to 8.2 kg per household per week). The CROWN scheme, set up by Wealden District Council, uses a ‘green’ wheelie bin for compostable materials and a ‘black’ wheelie bin for other wastes which are collected on alternate weeks only. A kerbside recyclates box is also provided for papers and metals. This replaces a simple kerbside scheme and analysis of the waste before and after the change also shows that the amount of waste in the recyclates boxes and participation rates for its use have increased.