GEORGE NEWS - As from tomorrow, Friday 1 June, residents will have to buy their own blue bags for recycling, until a new service provider has been appointed. Until such time, the blue bags will be collected by municipal refuse trucks, on the same day that the black bags are collected.
George Municipality ended their contract with Interwaste Environmental Solutions who has delivered this service over the last four years, since May 2014, on a month-to-month basis. Ian Temple, the general manager of Interwaste, said the company was taken by surprise.
"We were surprised at the suspension notice as we have been successfully running the contract for the last four years without any issues being brought to our attention by the municipality," he said. "We remain committed and look forward to tendering for these services in July. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the residents for their participation in the recycling programme."
Municipal Spokesperson Chantel Edwards-Klose said the municipality remains committed to the recycling process, which is one of the most effective ways to save natural resources and lowers waste products sent to landfill sites. "A tender process will be undertaken to appoint a new service provider.
Interwaste was proud of the new vehicle they acquired four years ago, when they were appointed by George Municipality to provide recycling services for the city. Photo: Myron Rabinowitz
"This is a temporary situation and George Municipality wishes to maintain the momentum of those residents who continue to put out blue bags. The recycling of items will take place at the municipal transfer station," she said.
"The municipality is not able to provide any blue bags as of 1 June. The public who wish to continue recycling are asked to purchase their own blue bags or alternatively clear plastic bags so that the content can be clearly identified as recycled items. George Municipality would like to apologise for any inconvenience this creates."
The tender process will commence in July. Edwards-Klose promised updates on progress. Any queries can be directed to the Director: Community Services on 044 802 2900.
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