Top Tips for a Green Christmas

The Isle of Wight Council is encouraging Islanders to have a green Christmas by composting as much waste as possible over the festive period.

The council is keen that leftover organic waste is kept away from landfill this Christmas and is making information available to help everyone do their bit.

This includes advertising in local press and the production of posters to encourage people to compost their organic waste and to recycle as much as they can over Christmas. The seasonal campaign aims to remind people that they can help themselves and the environment, from recycling to reducing food waste and saving money.

Recycling waste properly is particularly important over the festive period, as 30% more waste is expected to be generated, with the average household producing about 10kg a week of general rubbish.

Christmas refuse and recycling collection dates are being advertised in local press and the council’s One Island magazine. Members of the public can also learn more about their local refuse collection schemes and recycling centres by calling 01983 823777 or visiting www.iwight.com/waste where useful recycling tips and advice can be found.

"You will be making a positive contribution to the environment this Christmas by being vigilant about your waste disposal," says Laura Kay, the council’s Waste Minimisation and Recycling Officer.

"Recycling glass, for example, is extremely beneficial to the environment as 13, 350 tonnes of glass is thrown out in the UK during the festive season. Recycling all of that could save 4,200 tonnes of CO2 equivalent from being produced, which is equivalent to taking around 1300 cars off the road for one year."

It is really important to recycle glass using the kerbside black box schemes or recycling sites, as any glass in general rubbish goes to landfill which is a huge waste as it is perpetually recyclable with no loss in quality.

If residents do not want their tasty Christmas leftovers to go to waste, they can visit www.lovefoodhatewaste.com for a variety of great festive recipe ideas to help make the most of leftovers and save money. Useful advice on how to be efficient when shopping and on storing and portioning food can also be found.

And there is even something positive to come out of unwanted presents or the goods they replace. The Isle of Wight Storeroom Project distributes unwanted furniture and household goods to those in need. Items can also be put to good use via local charity shops and there is always Wightbay or eBay if you would appreciate money in return.