French village Pince to hand out chickens to cut waste Published duration 28 March 2012

image caption As well as reducing waste, officials hope the chickens will provide at least 200 eggs per year

A French village has proposed giving two chickens to each household in order to cut down on organic waste.

Officials in the village of Pince in north-western France say the chickens should each consume 150kg (330lb) of rubbish per year.

It is hoped that as well as reducing waste, the chickens will help families save money by providing eggs.

Those who express an interest will receive their chickens in September, officials say.

"To begin with it was a joke, but then we realised it was a very good idea," mayor of Pince Lydie Pasteau told France 3 TV.

"It will also reinforce community links: just as people look after their neighbours' cats and dogs while they're away, they'll also look after the chickens," she said.

Between 15 and 20 households are believed to have shown an interest in the scheme so far.

Ms Pasteau said she hoped the chickens would prove "a good investment as the the cost of waste disposal is bound to increase over time."