Why backing the three-bins recycling system is better for householders, according to experts

As Stormont considers a central waste collection system, recycling experts Re-Gen are urging householders to back the simpler three-bin mixed recyclable waste collection system for Northern Ireland’s environment and economy. This is paid for advertising and does not reflect the views of the Derry Journal.

Re-Gen, the company sorting more than 200,000 tonnes of Northern Ireland’s waste every year, claims the three-bin system will help with higher recycling rates and save as much as £1 billion for the public purse.

Re-Gen is urging householders to have their say in the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) consultation – and opt for the three-bin system.

The firm has warned of the set-up costs for an alternative system and claims that the three-bin system will also produce a top level of recyclate for the local recycling sector. It is also urging householders to discuss the issue with their political representatives.

While 11 Northern Ireland councils now have different collection systems, DAERA is considering one core method for all to follow in the Rethinking Our Resources: Measures for Climate Action and a Circular Economy in NI Consultation. Its challenge is to find the best scheme for the region’s environment, working towards 2030 climate targets.

Waste collection choices

The kerbside sort, currently used in Antrim and Newtownabbey, Mid & East Antrim and large parts of Belfast, requires householders to use as many as six bins – with three caddy bins for dry recyclables.

Though Government data shows the three-bin system consistently results in higher recycling levels, says Re-Gen . . . and that’s because it’s the simplest system. It is currently used by six council areas including Derry City and Strabane, Newry, Mourne and Down and Mid Ulster. Blue, or sometimes green, bins are used for dry recyclables and glass, with a brown bin for food and garden waste, and a grey or black one for residual waste.

Saving public purse money

Re-Gen has commissioned independent analysis which claimed that changes to a new six-box system across council areas would cost Stormont £1 billion over seven years, including new bin lorries, boxes and other set-up costs.

Meanwhile, the three-bin system – using companies like Re-Gen to sort waste – will create high-quality paper, plastic and metal recyclate for local companies to make new products. Glass can be added, at minimum cost, to complete the circular waste economy.

The three-bin mixed recyclable system is the best for Northern Ireland’s environment, economy and recycling industry. We are urging Stormont to choose the system which makes sense and which will be the most simple and convenient for householders

Re-Gen Chief Executive Joseph Doherty

He added: “The mixed recyclable system will help Northern Ireland reach its 2030 climate commitments and will save the public purse from needless cost at a time when the finances are stretched. Let experienced companies like Re-Gen sort waste rather than forcing householders to operate a recycling centre from their own homes.”

Have your say

To find out more and have your say in the consultation click here