DURBAN Solid Waste has added a new clear bag for glass bottles and cans to its recycling project.
According to Robert Abbu, deputy head: strategic and new development, there had been a demand for recycling cans and glass for various reasons, following the success of the orange bag which collected and recycled dry waste, such as paper.
DSW conducted a pilot paper recycling project in the Highway area in August 2007. With the project proving to be a huge success DSW then introduced the project throughout the eThewkini region in different phases.
The main benefits of this project is to protect the environment, re-use of resources, reduce waste at landfills and promoting the separation of waste at source.
“There had been a high demand for recycling cans however the glass bottles didn’t do so well as its a lengthy process to recycle glass. We approached every glass manufacturer until one agreed to assist us,” said Abbu.
DSW has now introduced a clear bag for recycling glass bottles and cans which closes with a draw string and makes it easier to carry.
“Tenders closed four weeks ago and the bags are currently in production but will only be available in the new year,” said Abbu.
The recycling bags for glass bottles and cans consists of 50 micron, which is thick enough to protect yourself against any broken glass. It can also be re-used for recycling.
The only request DSW has for residents is to please clear out all the liquids from the glass bottles and cans.
“We urge residents to please rinse out all the cans and dry out the bottles as we don’t want the left over liquid to litter the streets before we collect the recyclable bags,” said Abbu.
DSW distributes a three-month supply of orange recycling bags to each household. The pack contains 15 recycling bags which is permitted for the use of recycling plastic, paper and cardboard only. The clear bags for glass bottles and cans will be collected on the same day as the orange bags and the normal domestic collection by the same contractor.
This service operates until 5pm each day, so please do not be concerned if the orange or clear bags are collected late in the afternoon.
If you have any comments and questions about this recycling programme, you can contact the DSW Helpline on 031 311 8804 or 031 303 1665 or by e-mail: DSWCSL@dmws.durban.gov.za
