13 Conclusions and Recommendations
Participation and recyclate diversion rates
In all but one local authority, the introduction of the pilot schemes resulted in a significant increase in the number of people recycling.
The two backcourt recycling schemes, Glasgow and South Lanarkshire, had the highest participation and projected diversion rates. Participation and projected diversion rates for the on-street and doorstep schemes were typically 15% - 25% lower. It should be noted that an existing doorstep scheme, which has been provided to 1084 high-rise properties in Falkirk since October 2004, has achieved a diversion rate comparable to the backcourt schemes.
Cost effectiveness of scheme rollout
Dundee's near-entrance scheme is projected to have the lowest cost per tonne (£118) of material collected. However, the number of houses to which the scheme could be rolled out to in Dundee is relatively low. As a result, the additional costs to the Council of implementation and operation are relatively low.
Three other schemes - South Lanarkshire, Glasgow City, and City of Edinburgh - also have rollout costs of less than £200/tonne. These are either backcourt or on-street recycling schemes. Of these, South Lanarkshire has the lowest cost at £144/tonne.
The costs for the doorstep recycling schemes range between £233 and £433/tonne. If these schemes could achieve the same diversion rate as the existing Falkirk scheme then costs would be in the region of £155 and £340 respectively. Falkirk cost would be reduced to £356 if they introduced a commingled scheme.
Recommendations
Multi-occupancy recycling schemes will need to be implemented with consideration of the existing residual collection system and the predominate type of multi-occupancy property. Therefore, there is no single system that can be recommended for all multi-occupancy properties in Scotland.
Projected rollout costs for Scotland's two largest cities - Glasgow and Edinburgh - are similar (< £200/tonne). These different schemes are considered to be good practical solutions for each city. South Lanarkshire's scheme was similar to Glasgow's, but has a lower projected cost per tonne. This scheme is also a suitable option considering the residual waste collection system and property types found in South Lanarkshire.
The Aberdeen pilot scheme was similar to that of Edinburgh's. However, the scheme's performance would have to significantly increase for it to be cost effective.
It is reasonable to assume that West Dunbartonshire's doorstep schemes could increase performance to allow for costs to reduce to around £200/tonne. It is recommended that Falkirk Council look for ways to improve the cost efficiency of their doorstep scheme before large-scale rollout. Falkirk Council have already indicated that they will be moving from a kerbside sort to a commingled collection, which would improve efficiency and reduce costs for the current pilot area.