Q: Why can't we recycle more types of plastic?
A: We have investigated ways in which plastic could be collected and recycled. Unfortunately due to the high cost of collecting, sorting and transportation, the net cost of recycling plastic is significantly higher than other materials. At this stage the only plastics we are able to accept milk bottles (please rinse and squash) and carrier bags. We will continue to review the situation and concentrate our efforts on expanding the recycling facilities for glass, metal, paper and textiles.
Q: Can cardboard go in the black recycling box?
A: No - please put cardboard and envelopes in the brown bin for composting. Cardboard that is left in the recycling box will not be collected.
Q: Why hasn't my box or bin been returned?
A: Occasionally a recycling box or a brown bin can be mistakenly left on the lorry, returned to the wrong house, or stolen. Please contact customerservices@middevon.gov.uk or telephone 01884 255255 if this happens. A replacement box or bin will be delivered within the following two weeks.
Q: Can you recycle junk mail?
A: Yes. White paper and catalogues can go in the black box for recycling. Envelopes are a low-quality types of paper and should go in the brown bin for composting. It helps if you can remove the plastic windows. Better still, avoid junk mail by writing to the Mailing Preference Service, Freepost 22, London, W1E 7EZ asking them to remove you from the mailing lists. This is a free service.
Q: Do I have to take the labels off tins and jars?
A: Labels do not have to be taken off as they get removed in the recycling process. However, it really helps us if you give bottles, jars and tins a rinse before putting them in the reycling box.
Q: Can I have a lid for my box?
A: Yes - lids are provided free of charge on request. Please contact Customer First on customerservices@middevon.gov.uk or 01884 255255.
Q: I have too much to fit in my box; what should I do?
A: Recyclables can be put out in extra bags or alongside your recycling boxes. The plastic bags will be recycled as well. However, we are happy to give and extra box if this makes it easier for you to recycle. Please contact Customer First on customerservices@middevon.gov.uk or 01884 255255.
Q: Can I put animal waste in the brown bin?
A: Bedding and droppings from vegetarian animals like rabbits can go in the brown bin for composting. However, cat and dog waste should be put our with your general refuse.
Q: Can I have another brown bin for extra garden waste?
A: No - it is not the Council's policy to collect unlimited amounts of garden waste. The brown wheeled bin is intended to contain food, cardboard and a reasonable quantity of garden waste. If you have more garden waste than you can fit in the brown bin, there are some other options:
- Compost your waste at home, using a garden composting bin
- Take the waste to one of Devon County Council's recycling centres. These are open 7 days a week and provide a separate skip for compostable garden waste.
- For a one-off collection of a large amount of garden waste, please contact Customer First on 01884 255255 and ask about bulky waste collections.
- Some villages in Mid Devon have their own community composting groups. Please visit www.dcrn.org for a list of these.
Q: I have just moved in. How do I get a recycling box and brown bin?
A: Please contact customerservices@middevon.gov.uk or telephone us on 01884 255255. We will deliver your brown bin, recycling box and a collection day calendar.
Q: Can I have a collection day calendar?
A: To look up your collection day online click here. If you would like a printed version of the calendar or your property is not appearing please contact Customer First or telephone 01884 255255.
