Saving time and money in waste

Councils across the country are looking at ways to save money and Hertsmere is leading the way in Hertfordshire.

Hertsmere's fleet of waste and recycling collection vehicles

 

The council is piloting a software system, similar to sat nav, which will identify the best routes to use when collecting household waste and recycling.  The idea is that the technology could highlight a better, more efficient way for crews to get around the borough and if successful, the software would be rolled out across the county and help save time and thousands of pounds.

Leader of Hertsmere Borough Council, Morris Bright, said: "We all know how councils are up against it financially but working smarter, as we are, can actually deliver a better service for less money.

"We are delighted to be piloting this project for Hertfordshire and more than happy to share our experience with the other nine councils - it could secure significant savings across the county."

The council is currently ensuring every home in the borough is included on the Local Land and Property Gazetteer, a database of addresses maintained by each local authority in the UK.  The software will then be applied to find the best way for our crews to go from home to home, road to road and on to a waste transfer station or recycling plant.

The software will also be used to help facilitate the roll out of kerbside glass collections later this year as well as improving street cleansing routes.

Cllr Bright added: "Not only will this help save the council money, but it will also benefit the environment because if vehicles are on the road for a shorter amount of time, it means less fuel and fewer emissions."

The project was showcased at the Local Government Association conference earlier this month, in a DVD which highlighted how innovation and collaboration is helping councils become more efficient.