06 July 2010
During the next few weeks all catering outlets and commercial kitchens will receive a pack from Transport and Technical Services (TTS) to explain the best practice and legal requirements regarding the disposal of waste oils, grease and food waste.
Major blockages can be caused by these materials if they are disposed of down kitchen sinks or drains, because they cool and harden once in the sewerage system. This can cost the States of Jersey thousands of pounds each year, as well as causing extra costs to businesses in the clean-up efforts.
This reminder comes at a time when the sewerage system is put under additional strain due to visitors and seasonal workers in the Island.
Ellen Littlechild, acting Director of Waste, said "By raising awareness of the correct disposal of commercial fats, oil and grease, we hope to make savings by preventing unnecessary blockages to sewer pipes and work to the sewage treatment works. Many local catering outlets and commercial kitchens already operate to best practice, but not all, and we are still experiencing problems with food waste, fats, oils and grease in the foul sewers."
Catering outlets and commercial kitchens are reminded that a free oil collection is provided by GBN Growers Ltd on behalf of the States of Jersey. The oil will either be used for biodiesel production or sent to the UK for recycling. Collection can be arranged by calling +44 (0) 1534 869921 (answerphone out of hours).
gov.je