In order to develop effective new recycling schemes you need to know what sort of waste you are dealing with. So in Somerset we decided to find out exactly what is put in dustbins within the County. The Somerset Waste Partnership commissioned a 'waste analysis' study, which worked out what Somerset householders put in their bins ready for collection.

The graph below shows the different types of materials that make up the average 'Somerset Bin'.

It shows that the bulk of the waste is as follows:

1. Kitchen waste
2. Paper & card
3. Glass
4. Garden waste.

Note: The 'Misc' section (11%) comprises of materials that make up less than 2% of the total waste. Notable materials include carrier bags (1.6%) and household batteries (0.1%).

The waste analysis, funded by the Wyvern Environmental Trust, was undertaken by Network Recycling during 2003.

For more information on the waste analysis carried out in Somerset, please contact Waste Services at Somerset County Council.

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