The village of Pince, population 200, in the Sarthe region came up with the idea in a bid to cut waste-collection costs and help local families dealing with the economic crisis, mayor Lydie Pasteau told AFP.

“This is a way to not only reduce the amount of rubbish, but also to play an educational role for children and help families to save money, considering the rocketing price of eggs,” she said.

Pasteau said all homes that request the chickens, which can each consume up to 150 kilograms (330 pounds) of waste and produce 200 eggs a year, will receive them in September.

“At eight to 10 euros ($11-$13) per chicken, the costs are limited for the village,” she said. “In any case it will be a good investment because inevitably the cost of waste removal will increase over time.”

The mayor said 15 to 20 households had expressed interest in the initiative.