Changes to the way plasterboard is managed at Civic Amenity sites across the island will come into effect next week.
From Monday (January 5) clean plasterboard will be separated on site for recycling.
This reflects updated arrangements for how the government manages and disposes of plasterboard, allowing clean plasterboard to be collected and recycled instead of being sent to island landfill.
There are a number of environmental risks associated with plasterboard disposal as, when placed in landfill, it can produce hydrogen sulphide gas, which is both odorous and potentially harmful, making correct handling important.
Disposal Changes
Councillor Falk Horning, Douglas City Council’s representative on the Eastern District Civic Amenity Site Committee, says the revised arrangement both promotes sustainable waste management and delivers long-term environmental benefits:
“These changes are being introduced in line with updated waste management legislation to reduce the amount of plasterboard sent to landfill. We recognise this will mean residents need to prepare materials slightly differently and may cause some inconvenience.
“We apologise for this and thank site users for their patience and cooperation. Staff will be available to offer help and guidance during the transition.”
Separate Materials
Going forward, residents will be asked to separate plasterboard materials into recyclable and non-recyclable categories before arriving on site. Clearly marked skips will be provided and staff will be available to assist to ensure materials are disposed of correctly.
Recyclable plasterboard includes:
• Dry, clean plasterboard sheets (plaster skim permitted)
• Dry offcuts from construction or DIY projects
• Dry plasterboard with paper or foil facing intact
Non-recyclable materials include:
• Bags used to transport materials
• Insulated plasterboard and insulation
• Wet plasterboard
• Kingspan
• Bags of set plaster
Residents are reminded that the Eastern Civic Amenity Site is intended for small-scale DIY waste only.
Waste arising from large renovations or major DIY projects should be disposed of using a privately hired skip as usual.
Usage limits remain in place, with residents permitted to bring up to six small rubble bags per week and no more than 12 bags per month.
