Households in Norfolk encouraged to reduce waste this festive period

Typically, a household produces thirty percent more waste during the festive period than at any other time, and with more people spending Christmas at home this year, this figure is set to increase. Therefore, people across Norfolk are being asked to do their bit to help reduce waste and increase recycling over the festive period.

Norfolk Recycles have produced a range of hints and tips to help people do exactly this, while at the same hopefully saving money.

The successful ‘Scrunch It To Sort It’ campaign makes a return with a new look. It aims at making sure only the correct wrapping paper is placed in the recycling bin and keeping out paper that contains glitter, foil and excess sticky tape.

All you need to do is scrunch the wrapping paper in your hand. If it stays scrunched in a ball it is recyclable, however if it bounces back, it is not, and will need to be placed in the rubbish bin.

Alongside glittery items, those containing foil and lots of sticky tape, the ‘Scrunch It To Sort It’ campaign also asks people to remove ribbons and bows that often decorate gifts before placing paper in the recycling bin. These items can end up spoiling whole loads of recycling when it is sent to the county’s sorting facility.

Cllr Andy Grant, Chairman of the Norfolk Waste Partnership, said “At Christmas recycling is not really at the forefront of people’s minds. However; the Scrunch Test has proven to be a fun and easy way for the whole family to find out if their wrapping paper can be recycled.”

“We are also encouraging people to think more responsibly about the paper they buy, ensuring it is recyclable or to even choose longer life substitutes.”

The team at Norfolk Recycles have put a variety of alternative options, waste reduction and recycling tips for people to consider this festive period. They include Christmas items that can be recycled, natural decorations ideas, gifts that everyone wants, reducing food waste and activities for children and the whole family to get involved with.

Visit the Norfolk Recycles website for all the details, www.norfolkrecycles.com, or find them on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.