Tree Stump Disposal Costs Skyrocket 430%

The cost for companies to dispose of tree stumps at recycling facilities is projected to increase by almost 430%. This significant price hike follows storm damage, including from Storm Goretti, which led to numerous trees falling and others requiring removal. Tree surgeon James Hawkins expressed shock at the steep increase, noting the lack of prior communication from authorities.

Guernsey Waste Operations Manager Rachel Lowe stated that oversized root sections, often with soil and stones attached, cannot be composted and require landfill disposal, incurring higher charges. She explained that these large stumps cause wear and tear on shredding machinery and negatively affect the quality of the final compost product if not processed in smaller sections.

In the aftermath of Storm Goretti, a higher volume of tree waste is being processed. New guidance from Guernsey Waste aims to ensure tree root sections are suitable for composting, producing quality soil. Stumps unsuitable for composting will incur the same landfill charge of £371.87 per tonne. A recent instance of a firm being incorrectly charged the higher rate for large root sections has been rectified.