Tips and tricks for the bio-waste container in winter

Every winter has the same dilemma: after a severe overnight chill, the bio-waste freezes inside the green container and intimately bonds with the bio bin. Despite increased efforts on the part of the garbage collectors, some containers can only be partially emptied, or not at all. In order to avoid such trouble, the Waste Advisors of ASP are giving tips again on handling bio-waste containers during the cold season.

Even in winter, you have to make sure the bio-waste container does not receive too much moisture, as this can cause waste to freeze to the container. Before filling, therefore, it makes good sense to line the bin with dry material such as newspaper, cardboard or bush trimmings. Moist bio-wastes, such as leftovers, should always be wrapped up in newspaper so that the moisture can be absorbed. Wet foliage, which has been squashed into the bio-waste container, can cause particular difficulties with emptying.

In order to ensure that the disposal of bio waste goes smoothly, Mechthild Hopmeier, Waste Advisor at ASP, offers the following advice: "When overnight frost is forecast it is advisable to put the green bio-waste containers in a frost-free place by nightfall on the evening before it is collected - a perfect place would be in the garage. Frozen foliage can be loosened from the walls of the bio-waste container with a spade shortly before it is collected, to help ensure that the bin is completely emptied."

Further information and assistance with difficulties can be obtained from the ASP Service Centre at Tel. 05251/88-1710.