The Nationalist Party has issued proposals to tackle waste collection, and a number of the points made would help lead to cleaner streets.

One proposal is for the introduction of underground bin systems. "Underground bin systems consist of large waste containers installed below ground, with only a sleek disposal chute visible above. Waste is stored in a temperature controlled underground environment, reducing odours and pest problems. Collection is done using specialized trucks equipped with lifting mechanisms," it said. It said that as a first step, underground bin systems can supplant wherever current bring-in sites exist, and as a second step, additional sites where possible in areas far from bring-in sites can be identified to implement this system.

This could also be one way of ensuring that recycling bins for instance do not end up overflowing. It is a good idea, and could see such sites installed in many parts of the islands. It is doubtful that this would one day lead to such bins on every street, given the excavation works that such a move would entail, but it does offer a good way forward to install more waste collection sites without the smells and fear of overflowing garbage.

The PN also proposes the idea of the introduction of mixed routes operated by partitioned garbage trucks which can collect multiple types of waste in a single route while maintaining separation.

This could be one possible solution for ensuring that waste taken out on the wrong day is collected anyway. Another solution could be to increase the number of collection days of particular bags depending on the locality. For instance, tourism heavy localities might need more black bag collection days.

Another point raised was that more smart bins should be installed around the islands, which can help reduce bins being left overflowing.

The issue of rubbish being on the side of the road has been one that has plagued the country for far too long. Mayors in localities have highlighted this problem, and it is one that needs to be tackled. The ideas proposed by the PN could be part of the solution. The party also calls for better enforcement, carrying capacity studies and specialised services for beaches and marinas, for istance.

There are of course other ideas out there in the public domain, such as making it mandatory for all new apartment blocks to include a room where garbage is stored from which collectors can simply enter and remove the bags from there. That would mean less garbage bags seen on roads and pavements.

The need for more enforcement has also been called for over the years by many. Insufficient action is being taken against those who abuse the system, resulting in the current mess that is seen. The finger in the past has been pointed at short-let apartments, yet so far no solutions have been implemented.

The waste issue in the country is one that affects everyone. The two major political parties would do well to get together and come up with a national solution.

The PN's ideas are suggestions worth exploring. What is sure is that the waste situation in the country cannot continue as it is.