Islanders reminded not to put pet excrement in with food waste

The message comes from Guernsey Waste after being made aware that ‘a bin man had told a dog owner to put their pet’s poo in with their food waste’.

‘We’re a little surprised that we are having to say this but for the avoidance of any doubt, dog waste – or for that matter, any other excrement – should never be put in with food waste,’ they said.

It should always be put in the black bag with general rubbish.

Guernsey’s food waste can be put to use to generate electricity and produce compost, but processors are clear what materials they will accept and which ones they will not.

‘They will not deal with us if we are sending them loads containing animal excrement,’ Guernsey Waste said.

A very ‘dim view’ is taken of any reports of dog waste in food caddies, as the island relies on the States having outlets for food waste. Action would have to be taken – and not just leaving the caddy behind.

Deliberately putting the wrong material in the wrong containers could lead to a fine of up to £60.

‘For the record, we think the bin men are fantastic,’ they said.

‘They do a great job, in all weathers, at times when the rest of us are safely tucked up in bed so we are big fans [of theirs].’

‘However, if anyone else has been advised to put poo in anything other than ‘general waste’ bags, they should contact the States recycling team to let them know.’