Kerb recycling collections begin

Householders will sort their rubbish into two colour-coded plastic containers

Collections are now under way in the Isle of Man's first kerbside recycling scheme.

Homes in Douglas, Onchan and Braddan have been given two plastic containers to separate paper, steel, aluminium, glass and plastics.

Three recycling vehicles will collect the boxes from homes every two weeks.

About half of the island's population is covered by the scheme, being run by the government, Douglas Corporation and Braddan and Onchan Commissioners.

Dudley Butt MLC, waste management spokesman, said: "I'm really excited that the island's first ever kerbside recycling collection scheme is starting today.

"At last we're able to offer a comprehensive scheme for over half of our population.

"Recycling is exceptionally important if we're to reduce both waste and our dependence on fossil fuels."

How the rubbish will be recycled:

• Glass will go to Corlett's quarry at Ballaharra, Peel, where it will be sorted, cleaned, and then crushed to be used as sand replacement
• Cans will be sent to a recycling facility in the north west of England
• Plastic will be turned into plastic flakes to make a range of products including garden furniture and fleece jackets