Image
In May, we trialled the Quatro system, the first of its kind in the UK.
Despite our existing excellent track record for recycling, we’re striving to improve even further by looking at innovative collection methods.
We’re also looking at ways to improve the quality of kerbside recycling to be even more efficient, effective and environmentally friendly, fitting in with our vision of being a leading authority in minimising waste and tackling the climate emergency.
The Quatro system has been used in Scandinavia for about 20 years.
North Somerset Environment Company, the arm's length organisation set up in 2021 to supply our recycling and waste services, saw its potential so worked with one of its key suppliers NTM-GB to bring it here.
Our four-week trial looked at the advantages and disadvantages of the system, which uses a specially designed wheelie bin for recycling and waste.
Two sizes of the bin were trialled – a 240L and 370L size – each featuring four compartments, a lid and three wheels.
Some participants also trialled a three-compartment addition which clipped onto the front of the bin to collect batteries, spectacles and lightbulbs.
A specialist collection lorry, on loan from NTM, was transported from Sweden for the trial period.
Its unique lift mechanism matches the bin’s four compartments to the lorry’s four collection chambers.
Participants responded very positively to the trial overall and feedback showed that the trial bin made it easier for them to sort their recycling and waste.
It also stopped recycling from being blown away on collection day, so reduced litter.
However, participants using the 370L version found the bin too large and 40 per cent found it a struggle to move on collection day, compared with 17 per cent who experienced the same issue with their normal bins and boxes.
As a result, we’ll look to test the 240L version in any subsequent trials.
Crews found the NTM Quatro vehicle easier to manoeuvre, especially in narrow lanes and roads.
The collection method also offered a significant improvement for health and safety reasons, as crews didn’t have to pick up recycling boxes from the ground.
A full operational and financial analysis is now being carried out and depending on results, we’ll then decide whether to proceed with a more in-depth second Quatro trial.
We’re also planning a campaign early next year to encourage and support more residents to separate their recycling by material type.
Well-sorted recycling speeds up collections, improves the quality of recycling and helps tackle the climate emergency.
More details will be announced on the North Somerset Recycling and Waste social media channels, on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter), and in a future edition of this e-newsletter.