The Conservative group at East Suffolk are encouraging residents to consider the environment this Christmas by choosing recyclable products wherever possible and reducing their household waste.
Our focus is about building environmentally sustainable communities, and we want to encourage all our residents to make the right decision.
An estimated 125,000 tonnes of plastic packaging and 83km2 of wrapping paper is thrown away in the UK every Christmas. However, much of this waste could be recycled at home through the household recycling bin.
Most wrapping paper is recyclable, with the exception of paper with glitter or foil-effect papers. Cardboard packaging and cards without glitter are also recyclable through the recycling bin, as well as hard plastic, aluminium foil, newspaper, magazines, cans and plastic bottles.
Cllr James Mallinder, East Suffolk’s Conservative spokesperson said:
“Christmas is a time for us all to relax, enjoy ourselves and spend time with the family and friends however it is also a time where a huge amount of additional waste is created and much of this can be recycled. We appreciate that what can and cannot be recycled in the bin at home can be confusing however paper, card, plastic bottles and cans can all easily be recycled. If residents are unsure whether an item is recyclable, we would urge them to check the Suffolk Recycling website.
“We would also like to encourage people to consider what they are buying this Christmas and choose recyclable materials, if possible, as well as being mindful of overbuying food which may ultimately go to waste. There is a wealth of ways we can help reduce the amount of waste produced this Christmas and if each household can make just a few small changes, it would make a huge difference across East Suffolk.”
According to the Suffolk Waste Partnership, a staggering 2 million turkeys, 74 million mince pies and 17.2 million sprouts are thrown away every Christmas. To help save money and reduce the amount of food you throw away, try buying only what you need. If you do have leftover, you can either freeze this or use to create another meal, such as casseroles, soups, salads and much more.
Like our residents we care about the environment and if we all do our little bit, small changes can and will make a difference.
