New recycling banks for small electricals

NEW recycling banks for unwanted or broken small electrical appliances have been introduced in Carmarthenshire.

The council, in partnership with DHL Envirosolutions, have provided 10 WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) banks across the county.

Residents can take along small electronic and electrical items such as hairdryers, radios, toasters, kettles and mobile phones; in fact any electrical item that can fit inside the bin will be accepted, recycled and turned into something new.

Remember though if it is still in working order, someone else may be able to make use of it, so why not try your local charity shop first.

Executive Board Member for Street Scene Cllr Colin Evans (pictured) said: “It is important that we recycle as much of our waste as possible. Everyone knows that you can recycle paper, cans and glass for example, but few people realise that old electrical items such as toasters and power tools can also be recycled.

“We are working hard to improve recycling rates in Carmarthenshire and these new banks will make it much easier for people to recycle and help us to achieve our targets.”

By keeping old WEEE separate from other household wastes it can be treated, the hazardous substances can be removed and a large proportion recycled rather than sent to landfill.

If the banks are successful, more will be provided.

Karl Greig, general manager at DHL Envirosolution, said: “Many small electronic items are currently disposed of in household bins rather than being recycled. We are happy to be working with Carmarthenshire County Council on this exciting project, and we urge residents to recycle their old small electrical items by using their closest WEEE bank and help save natural resources and the environment.”

The WEEE banks are not able to accept large electrical items such as televisions or fridges. Residents can either take these items to their nearest Household Waste Recycling Centre or arrange for a bulky waste collection for a small charge.

Visit www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk/recycling or call Carmarthenshire Direct on 01267 234567 for more information.

The new WEEE banks are located at:

• Morrisons, Carmarthen
• Tumble car park (Darren Las)
• Newcastle Emlyn car park
• Llanybydder car park
• Pendine car park
• Llandeilo Industrial Estate
• Llandovery car park
• Co-op, Kidwelly
• Morrisons, Llanelli
• Co-op, Cross Hands