New stats show we care more about the environment than ever before
Recycle Week
The theme for Recycle Now’s 17th annual Recycle Week is to thank the nation and the people of Barnet for continuing to recycle despite all that has happened this year.
Statistics released by Recycle Now show that through lockdown the UK has become even more environmentally aware, with nearly 9 in 10 households saying they ‘regularly recycle’.
Coming out of lockdown, more people are prepared to change their lifestyles to help the environment: 73 per cent, up from 68 per cent in 2019. And an amazing 93 per cent of UK households say they believe that ‘everyone has a responsibility to help towards cleaning up the environment’.
The figures come from research carried out during lockdown and an omnibus survey completed in July.
Councillor Dean Cohen, Chair of Barnet’s Environment Committee, said: “We encourage everyone in the borough to do their bit by recycling. We accept cardboard, cartons, food tins, drink cans, glass, paper, and plastics such as bottles, tubs, pots and trays in your blue bin.
“The more we recycle, the less waste goes for disposal – so, thank you for doing your bit to improve our environment for future generations.”
Peter Maddox, Director, Waste & Resources Action Programme UK, said:
“It’s fantastic to see that despite everything that has been thrown at them this year, more people than ever are taking responsibility for protecting the environment by choosing to recycle. This is something we can all do, wherever we live – an individual action that, when performed by everyone, adds up to a huge change.
“Bin collection crews in Barnet have been real heroes too, providing the best service possible under the most difficult of circumstances. The recognition they received in the form of friendly waves, notes, cards and gifts left out for them is heart-warming proof of how people of the borough have cooperated.
“Recycle Week this year is an opportunity to thank everyone for continuing to recycle, whatever their circumstances and to celebrate the way we have all pulled together. There has been a positive leap forward in attitudes that we must capitalise on so we can do even better in the coming year!”
Barnet Council, businesses and other organisations across the country are joining in with a range of activities to highlight the importance of recycling. Everyone – organisations and individuals - can support Recycle Week by using #RecycleWeek on social media.
For more information about recycling in Barnet, visit www.barnet.gov.uk/recycling or visit @BarnetCouncil social media pages for handy recycling tips throughout the week.