"AWC equally clearly is not suitable everywhere: in cities and urban areas, congestion and limited storage space rules against it. Most controversy has arisen over food waste, with householders concerned that storing leftover food for a fortnight means more rat, fly and animal activity, with consequences for public health". (This is an extract from The House of Commons Select report on AWCs)

 

Oliver Madge. British Pest Control Association.

"This approach to waste collection has to increase infestation of flies. If council introduce the scheme now people will not realise until next summer".

Hugh Pennington. Ex-president of the Society of General Microbiology.

"Waste lying about for 2 weeks was a present from heaven for rats, and more rats and mice will spread diseases such as salmonella".

WRAP. The Waste Resources Action Programme.

Transient Populations:

In areas with a high transient population (e.g. students and tourists), difficulties can often arise in the uptake of any collection service. This is due to the lack of knowledge of and commitment to the service. A transient population may lack the additional long term commitment and change in behaviour associated with an AWC (Alternate Weekly Collection). Serving these populations may require a different approach.

Exeter City Council has retained a weekly refuse collection in the city centre owing in part to the large student population in this area.

World Heath Organisation

- recommend weekly collection in temperate climates.