Local Authorities
A collection bag full of waste batteries, ready for collectionFor use in England, Wales and Northern Ireland

First results of the kerbside collection trials

WRAP is undertaking small monthly evaluation report to see how the batteries schemes are running. The first evaluation period took place in between 1st April – 28th of April. We received 10 evaluation responses out of the 12 partners.

  • Report produced on 6th June 2006
  • Period covered: 1st April – 28th of April

The results…
The data received by the partners for this period was limited because most of the collections were starting in May. However, 3 partners had started their collections and some general feedback was received from the other partners.

The 3 partners who had started collected were:

  • East Devon District Council
  • Falkirk Council
  • Bryson Recycling (Armagh City & District Council and Banbridge District Council) in Northern Ireland

It was however observed by many partners that residents started putting out bags for collection as soon as the bags were delivered to their houses and before the scheme was launched. This was however not a problem as the crews were briefed to collect the bags even if the launch had not started and was expected by WRAP staff.

    Tonnages, tonnages, tonnages...

    'The scheme has been running well. Collections are as expected, several households having added larger amount of spent and stored batteries’

    Month Update Cumulative total
    April 2006 3 partners launch
    collections    		 n/a
    May 2006 11 partners now
    collecting    		 1048.5kg*

     

     

     * only data collected from 2 schemes

    Householder feedback

    Very positive comments!

    • ‘we have received positive feedback from the householders, they are pleased to be part of the trial area’
    • ‘feedback has been positive “a good idea, about time'
    • ‘Householders are very pleased that a collection is about to begin’
      ‘they are pleased to be part of the trial area’

    Crews feedback

    Generally very good feedback!

    • ‘We have already had a couple of customers say during the roll out that they are very happy that batteries have been added to the service’
    • ‘Typical questions asked to the crews:‘When can I put my box out? Can I put hearing aids batteries?’ yes they can!

    Some concerns:
    In one area, crews were concerned regarding batteries being mixed up with food containers and the public not using the bags. They were also concerned that if the bags were not sealed, some batteries could be corroded and left loose.’ We are monitoring these concerns closely.

    Communication and marketing

    Positive feedback on the media side

    • ‘excellent branding, very clear info and eye catching’
    • ‘support information has been very good, especially the toolkit and the help with the press release’

    A full collection bag, ready to be added to the kerbside box.For use in Scotland only.

    See also