Over the last month the quality of the product in recycling bins has gone downhill, with residents constantly putting non-recyclable waste in the recycling bins.

Examples of the products causing major problems for the staff at the Glen Innes Recycling Centre include grass clippings, surgical waste, nappies and even dead animals being placed in recycling bins.

“We are having major issues with the quality of product,” Glen Industries acting manager Charlie McShane said.

“People have to remember to recycle the right things.”

To ensure residents are doing just that, council rangers will be undertaking random spot checks on recycling bins around town.

If anyone is found to be putting non-recyclable waste in their recycling bins they may face a $220 fine.

Council ranger Tim Tibbs said there would most likely be a three-step program in place for those residents not following the rules.

“The first time the bin will be wheeled back into the premises with the lid sealed and a letter attached, the second time there will be a penalty infringement notice and the third time we will refuse to empty the bin,” he said.

Mr Tibbs said it only takes a small amount of non-recyclable product to contaminate a run.

The spot checks will be carried out on a weekly basis in Glen Innes, Emmaville, Deepwater and Glencoe.

Council’s Director of Infrastructure Services, Vanessa Menzie, said it is just common courtesy to place the right products in the right bins.

“People need to remember that all recycling is sorted by hand by Glen Industries staff,” she said.

Ms Menzie said council is looking at various ways to educate residents on recycling.

“We’re looking at mailing out brochures on what’s recycling and what’s not,” she said.

“We’re also looking at putting new stickers on bin lids.

“If people want more information on recycling they can contact council or Glen Industries.”

Mr McShane said he is hoping residents listen to the message of this article.

“We don’t mind things coming through that’s not recycling that’s clean,” he said.

“It’s things like nappies and chemical waste that’s the problem.

“We don’t expect people to be perfect, just to have a bit of consideration.”