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Telford and Wrekin residents can now fight identity fraud
by recycling shredded paper in their kerbside
collection.
Telford & Wrekin Council's Rubbish & Recycling team have
been trying to resolve the issue of collecting shredded paper
following a number of requests from residents.
With the growing problem of identity fraud, many more people are
using shredders to hide important information from criminals who
try to make money by using other people's personal details.
Until now the council has been unable to collect shredded paper
because the companies which recycle paper from the borough found
that it clogged up machinery. There was also the danger that it
would create a litter problem by blowing around the borough after
being put out for collection.
But following requests from residents to help them recycle their
shredded paper, the Rubbish & Recycling team has now come to an
agreement with collection contractors Telford and Wrekin Services
(TWS) and their paper re-processors to help resolve the issue.
Shredded paper can now be accepted as long as it is placed in
sealed envelopes and inside the red recycling box for collection.
This will also enable it to be put through the usual recycling
process without clogging up the machinery.
Residents can recycle old envelopes to hold the shredded paper.
However, they should also ensure the envelopes do not have their
name and address showing on the outside.
Residents are also asked to place their shredded paper out as
regularly as possible, rather than saving it up and putting it all
out at one time, to help ensure the smooth running of the new
service.
Andrew Eade, leader of the council, said: "Sadly we are hearing
more and more stories of identity fraud caused by criminals rifling
through our rubbish and recycling and more people are now using
shredders as a mean of preventing these types of crimes.
"Until now we have been unable to collect shredded paper, but
following talks with Sita, we have come up with a solution which
allows homeowners to look after their privacy at the same time as
caring for the planet.
"This is fantastic news and I hope everyone will take full
advantage of this new service."
For more information on shredded paper or recycling in general,
contact Environmental Maintenance Customer Services on 01952
384384. |