ABERDEENSHIRE Council is to begin a polystyrene recycling trial at three of its household recycling centres (HRCs).
A contract has been signed between the council and Styropack for a one-year pilot of the recycling service.
The polystyrene recycling bins will be found at HRCs in Banchory, Portlethen and Stonehaven. The centres will be accepting expanded polystyrene (EPS) only. Polystyrene contaminated with food, takeaway packaging, biodegradable or compostable packing chips, and styrofoam cups will not be accepted for recycling at the centres.
The move comes alongside the council’s recycling trial of rigid plastics, which has been ongoing since June.
Ros Baxter, Aberdeenshire Council’s waste manager, commented, “Both the polystyrene and rigid plastic pilots will provide key data that will help shape the services we provide to the public.
“We’re continually seeking opportunities to recycle new materials and divert waste from the landfill. The polystyrene trial is a positive step towards increasing our recycling rate in Aberdeenshire.”
Chair of Aberdeenshire Council’s infrastructure services, councillor Peter Argyle, said, “The polystyrene recycling trial reflects the council’s continued efforts to boost recycling rates in Aberdeenshire. If the outcome is positive, this trial could lead to a long-term solution for polystyrene disposal in Aberdeenshire.”
Vice-chair councillor John Cox added, “Aberdeenshire residents regularly enquire about polystyrene recycling. This trial aims to meet those demands and create a more efficient recycling service.”
