Why not leave rubbish collection to the private sector?

Radio NZ reports:

Auckland Councillors have voted not to proceed with a six-month trial of fortnightly kerbside rubbish collections in parts of the city, after considering public feedback.

The proposed trial would’ve halved the number of kerbside collections in Te Atatū, Panmure, Tāmaki, Clendon Park and Weymouth, with the intention of reducing waste to landfill.

About 5000 Aucklanders had made submissions during consultation, and 78 percent had opposed the trial.

Feedback included concerns about managing fuller bins, smells, hygiene and whether they would have enough bin space, particularly in big households.

I am not surprised that they scrapped the trial due to the backlash. Most people don’t want two weeks of rubbish hanging around their house.

But one size doesn’t fit all. I think the best solution is for the Council not to operate kerbside rubbish pickups at all. Leave it to the private sector who will offer different options and flexibility.

For example in Kapiti there is no council kerbside rubbish collection. Instead residents have a choice of six waste collectors to choose from. Operators allow you to choose from 80l to 240l wheelie bins. You can choose weekly or fortnightly pick up. You can pay monthly or annually for reduced prices. You can swap operators if unhappy with their service.

This is what Councils should do – allow choice and flexibility.

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