August 31, 2007 As part of the ongoing effort to improve Prince Edward Island’s waste management system, the Island Waste Management Corporation today reminded the public that, effective September 1, 2007, plastic bags containing excess organic waste will not be accepted. “Islanders continue to embrace the Waste Watch program and are keen to do their part to help the environment. Plastics don’t decompose so collecting extra organics in a plastic bag just isn’t the way to go says IWMC CEO Gerry Moore. Customers are requested to completely fill the compost cart. If cart is completely full, they should use an open rigid container or a paper yard and garden bag. Among the advantages of using paper bags over plastic bags for excess organics are that paper bags are made from recycled wood chips, they are easier for drivers to collect, and they are biodegradeable and able to enter the compost stream successfully. Another option is use of an open rigid container which can be reusable. “Our staff have been working to get the word out to the public about this change for several months now through our education and marketing efforts,” said Gerry Moore, CEO of Island Waste Management Corporation. “We certainly appreciate the continued support of Islanders as we continue to improve the level of environmental protection provided by the Waste Watch program.”Media Contact: Gerry Moore