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‘Yes!’ is the message from the recent joint statement by WRAP, DEFRA, National Industrial Symbiosis Programme (NSIP) and Environment Agency, as well as contractors and representatives from the industry. Recycling capacity in the UK has increased considerably over the last 7 years. While the recent global markets for recycling have been affected by the recession there is still a demand for high quality recyclables.

According to Recycle Now of the 10 million tonnes of material put out for recycling last year 95% were successfully reprocessed. At the present time recyclable materials are taking longer to enter the market which is why stocks have built up in some areas. However, these stocks will get used up as the amount of new recyclable material being produced falls as a result of the recession. (Recycle Now, 2009). Recovered materials are still a valuable resource and as with other commodities prices can rise and fall sharply. Glass, for example, continues to remain stable (WRAP, 2009). WRAP believes that the recent price changes we have seen are likely to be temporary so it is vital that we keep recycling. If materials are not put out for recycling they will be dumped in landfill. This method is not only detrimental to the environment but also extremely costly. The current price for disposal in a landfill site is around 45 pound sterling per tonne so it is still cheaper to recycle even if the materials have to be given away! (Recycle Now, 2009).

How Can I Help?

- Keep recycling. Materials that are not put out for recycling will go to landfill, a method of disposal that is the least beneficial to the economy and the environment.
- Contact your local authority / waste carrier Find out what the situation is in your area. - Provide quality recyclables There is still a strong demand for high quality recyclable materials so make sure that you only put out what your local authority or waste contractor asks for.
- Minimise waste Resource efficiency and waste minimisation are now even more important in helping to reduce the amount of waste going to landfill.

5 Questions to Test Your Recycling Scheme
1. Is everyone aware of the scheme and willing to get involved? Do you have a nominated member of staff to monitor the scheme?
2. Is the scheme easy to follow? Is there sufficient signage and labelling to avoid mix up of waste?
3. Do you feel that you are making savings on your waste bill since introducing the scheme?
4. Have you seen a reduction in the amount of waste going to landfill from your premises since you introduced the scheme?
5. Have you seen cost savings in the amount of office consumables you are buying?

Phil Byrne is director of web marketing at H2 in Leeds. H2 have worked alongside Ware 4 Recycling Bins Ltd for over 5 years, helping them promote their recycling bins, trolleys and waste containers online. More at http://www.ware4.co.uk