Recycling rules are changing in Hertsmere in an attempt to stop contamination of rubbish sent for composting.

Cardboard is currently collected in green bins along with food and garden waste.

But because things such as sticky tape, labels and staples are often left on cardboard, the loads became contaminated and produced poor quality compost that is often sent to landfill.

Hertsmere Borough Council has now changed its recycling guidelines so cardboard should now be left in residents’ brown bin, or black box, along with glass, cartons, plastic and cans.

Councillor Jean Heywood, environment portfolio holder, said: “Taking cardboard out of the compost mix in the green bin will be better for the environment all round. We’ll be recycling more rubbish as well as improving the quality of compost which is spread on local farmland.”

The council also hopes to save money by sending less waste to landfill.

The changes will come into force from Monday July 15.