News & Media > Environmental Services

22:02:2010

Hackney residents positive about recycling enhancements

The enhanced recycling service recently introduced by May Gurney and the London Borough of Hackney is meeting with the approval of local residents.

In a bid to further encourage households to do their bit for the environment, in October 2009 new materials including Tetra Pak-style cartons and plastic packaging were added to the green box collection service.

The paper-based cartons, which are used for things like orange juice, smoothies, soups and wine, can be recycled into a number of different products ranging from plasterboard liner to high-strength paper bags and envelopes.

In the past it has proved difficult to recycle these materials, but now May Gurney has used its extensive market knowledge and contacts to find outlets - and has incorporated collections utilising the existing infrastructure.

Hackney Council has recently completed a door knocking campaign to all households across the borough and has spoken to thousands of residents to publicise the changes.

Councillor Alan Laing, Hackney Council’s cabinet member for neighbourhoods, says: “Feedback has been extremely positive with many residents commenting on this being an improvement to an already great service, and complimenting the good work of the collection crews.

“It’s great that all the hard work of the Council and May Gurney in delivering improved services is recognised and that the recycling service continues to meet residents’ needs and expectations.”

Footnote: May Gurney’s contract with the London Borough of Hackney combines dry recycling, separate food waste collection and a range of estates recycling services. All households in the borough have access to recycling services.