HOUSEHOLDERS in the Cowdenbeath-Lochgelly area should note that compost/food waste bins will be collected every four weeks across the winter, from mid- November.

The seasonal change will start from the week beginning November 18, and two-weekly collections will resume during the week starting March 9 2020.

Having less garden waste in brown bins over the winter means bin collection lorries are not full, and that the council has the opportunity to reduce operating costs and maximise the use of resources, while reducing its environmental impact.

Residents can visit Fife Council's website www.fife.gov.uk/bincalendar to check their collection days.

The brown bin is the only household waste/ recycling bin that is changing in collection frequency.

Cllr Ross Vettraino, Fife Council’s convener of the Environment and Protective Services Committee, said: “Because there is very little garden waste during the winter, the council is reducing the number of compost/food waste collections over the winter period so that resources, if required, can be redirected to support other waste collection services, which are sometimes stretched due to adverse weather conditions. It also means that the council’s recycling points will be serviced more often, particularly during the busy festive season.

“There isn’t a problem storing food waste over a longer period over cooler months. As always, the bin lid should be kept closed. Unlike some other local councils, Fife Council continues to offer this service over the winter months.”

Meal planning and reusing left overs can save money as well as waste https://www.lovefoodhatewaste.com Saving food saves money and helps to slow down global warming and deforestation. Reducing the amount of food that ends up in the bin also means you can say goodbye to unnecessary packaging waste.

You can take additional garden waste, soil or rubble to most Fife recycling centres. Please visit https://www.fife.gov.uk/recyclingsites