FOR RELEASE
Green Party Councillor Simon Lee has said he is encouraged to see that a record 49% of waste collected between October and December 2019 was sent to recycling, according to DAERA statistics released today (Monday 27 April 2020).
Cllr Simon Lee, who sits on Lisburn and Castlereagh Borough Council said:
“I’m encouraged that such a high proportion of waste is being sent to recycle and it’s all down to the commitment of our citizens who appreciate the importance of recycling like never before.
“There is growing recognition that recycling cuts carbon emissions, saves energy and ultimately can help save us from irreversible climate breakdown.
“These figures look back to the end of last year and so much has changed since then with the onset of Covid-19.
“It’s important that the upward trend around recycling for household waste is maintained despite the pandemic we are facing into.
“Recycling centres in most towns and cities across Northern Ireland are closed so it’s an appropriate time to cut down on the waste we generate.
“Flytipping is on the increase, possibly because of lockdown induced online shopping or home improvements.
“I’d urge people to think about the waste packaging that comes with our online purchases.
“I’d also say that if you are considering home improvements you should tolerate empty paint tins or grass cuttings sitting around for the time being.”
Cllr Lee concluded:
“Finally, I’d urge people never to pay a third party to take away your excess waste, which can often result in flytipping.”
ENDS
