We really need to install far more on-street recycling bins as they have done here in Swizerland. The Swiss bins tend to come in groups of ten: 2 x paper + cardboard; 1 x PET plastic (ie with a 1-5 number on the bottom); 1 x aluminium + tin; 1 x green glass; 1 x clear glass; 1 x brown glass; 1 x bio waste; 2 x ordinary rubbish; and a small battery recycling bin thrown in for good measure. This is how Switzerland has managed to achieve household recycling rates of more than 50% (no 2 in Europe after Austria at 60%). And, unlike us, they use less energy by recycling rather than more. Crucially they do not use commingled collection boxes. And their on-street recycling bins are attractive!
I’ve been zipping around Geneva on their trams. They’re fast, regular, quiet, and environmentally friendly. I’m now fully convinced by the benefits of the proposed London Cross-River Tram (www.crossriverpartnership.org).
My Swiss host was recently caught speeding for the umpteenth time. Instead of banning him from driving the Swiss authorities gave him what I think is an pretty innovative punishment – they made him drive a car that’s only capable of 45km/hr (28mph). Hilarious, humbling and utterly appropriate. Another one for us to try in the UK perhaps?
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