Shortlist for National Recycling Awards
Merton has been shortlisted for an accolade at this year's prestigious National Recycling Awards, which celebrate excellence across the waste sector.
The council was chosen as a finalist in the category of 'Local Authority Team of the Year' for the borough-wide rollout of its popular food waste scheme for flats.
Merton's scheme for flats was launched in April 2012 in a bid to encourage residents to recycle more and reduce the amount of food which goes to landfill – around 25% of waste from an average flat is food waste.
The initiative was first introduced to houses in 2010 and then gradually rolled out to all homes in Merton. Residents were provided with free food waste caddies, compostable liners, and information on recycling. Wheeled bins were provided in communal areas for flats.
Merton Council's cabinet member for environmental sustainability and regeneration, Councillor Andrew Judge, said: "I am delighted that Merton has been shortlisted for a National Recycling Award. The food recycling scheme is hugely popular in Merton, and it continues to help residents recycle more and throw away less food. I would like to thank residents and our waste and recycling team for working together to make this scheme a success."
Winners will be announced on 3 July. To find out more about waste and recycling in Merton, visit www.merton.gov.uk/foodwaste.
April 19, 2013