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This week we began testing the Quatro system, which uses larger bins with four compartments, three wheels and a lid.
They are collected by a specialist vehicle which has a unique lift mechanism that matches the bin’s four compartments to the lorry’s four collection chambers.
A sample of different household types across North Somerset are testing out the service over the next four weeks, using these new bins instead of their existing containers.
Different combinations and options are being trialled, looking at the advantages and disadvantages of each, and results will be shared once it’s over.
If you’re not taking part in the trial, you won’t see any changes to your collections.
This new system could provide a range of benefits, including increased recycling capacity and easier sorting, a bin that’s easier to move because it has a front wheel which can rotate 360 degrees, and a reduction in litter because the lid means material can’t blow away.
We haven’t made any commitments beyond this initial trial and, depending on feedback and outcomes, further trials will be needed before councillors can review the results and decide how best to proceed.
If it’s successful and the new system is implemented, the number of journeys needed to collect household recycling and waste would be reduced, so it would reduce pollution, emissions and congestion on the roads, and save us money.
This is part of our vision to a leading authority in reducing waste and tackling the climate emergency.
We’ve already got an excellent track record for recycling but we’re always looking for ways to improve services.
In March, North Somerset Council was named the fourth best performing English unitary council, and 12th best council in the country overall, for its recycling rate. However, this is a drop from the previous year.
For updates follow the recycling team on social media, on Facebook and Twitter.