Letter: Food for thought

Of course recycling food waste to generate biofuel is a good idea (your report, 10 June). The problem is, how to do it?

First, the open bins used for recycled packaging in Edinburgh are unsuitable. Closed wheelie bins are the only option to prevent foxes and seagulls, and no doubt other wildlife as well, regarding this new food supply as a gift from the gods.

Public health concerns require such waste to be collected weekly, unlike the fortnightly collection of inert packaging; although perhaps twice weekly would be safer. Has anyone thought about the cost implications?

Next, how are the unwanted burgers, chickens, fish, etc to be discarded? If thrown into the bin unwrapped, the bin would quickly become a health hazard. If the rule is that all discarded food must be in plastic bags, then I am glad that I am not looking for a job disentangling rotting dinner from the bags.

I don't think the idea has been properly thought through and a lot of planning is required before it can be seriously suggested.

IAIN CAMPBELL

Pentland Terrace

Edinburgh