It is good news both for householders who can produce their own compost to help grow stronger and healthier plants for their garden and also for the IW Council who are striving to reduce the amount of organic waste that currently goes to landfill.

The authority has to dramatically reduce the amount of such waste it commits to landfill or face a financial penalty from the Government. A simple step that can be taken to help the Island achieve its targets is if homeowners put organic waste not in the domestic bin but in one of the new compost bins.

It is estimated that at least 30 per cent of a typical household bin could be composted. Items including Tea bags, fruit and veg peelings, old flowers, ground coffee and paper filters together with egg shells and cardboard boxes, cereal boxes, cardboard packaging, toilet and kitchen roll tubes, and shredded confidential documents can all be composted.

Cllr Ian Ward, IW Council cabinet member for Environment and Transport, said: 

“This initiative allows the individual to really do their bit for the environment by adopting only a very small change to their daily routine.

“In our recent consultations with the public we were told loud and clear that people had concerns about the environment. Well here’s a way we can make a positive contribution.”

Sarah Buttress, IW Council waste minimisation and recycling officer, said:

“Composting is easy. You throw your  uncooked food waste into your bin in your garden and with the help of worms and other creepy crawlies, they’ll decompose into the best plant food.

“You’ll save money, time and fuel by not buying compost in plastic bags, divert valuable resources from landfill and your plants will thrive.’

Organic waste that is sent to landfill is unable to decompose properly because it is packed beneath other waste and therefore deprived of air. The result is the production of methane, a powerful greenhouse gas, which contributes to global warming.

A 220ltr compost converter costs £8, a 330ltr model costs £10 and a hinged lid, 250 litre model is available for £20. Delivery is free for all models.

To find out more details of the compost bins on offer please visit:  Recycle Now or Isle of Wight Council . Alternatively call 0845 077 0757

Island Pulse