Taking out the rubbish6 September 2011
Havering Friends of the Earth is calling on its local council to improve recycling collections. The group had a stall at the recent Havering Show to draw attention to its campaign.
The emphasis on the stall was firmly on reducing waste. The group decorated a tree with objects that people might throw away but could often re-use, repair, recycle.
The group with local councillor Barry Tebbutt and the recycling tree
The group has called on Havering Council to improve its recycling services by:
- Including more plastic items.
- Using biodegradable green garden refuse sacks.
Members also set up two large tubs showing which plastic items could be recycled and which couldn't. The Council currently allows plastic bottles in the collection sacks.
Members of the public gave their thoughts on what should be done to improve the local environment using a survey designed by group member Melanie.
Lots of Havering residents told us how frustrated they are at being unable to recycle any plastics other than bottles. Our council was among the first to set up doorstep paper recycling but now it's lagging behind when it comes to diverting waste away from landfill and incineration.
John Robinson, Group Coordinator
Positive steps
The local group has high hopes for its campaign. Having met with the Council's Cabinet member for Environment and heard from so many other local people they're keen to see the Council collecting more items for recycling - especially plastics.
The group's recycled bottle rack rack made from cartons and belts.
Get involved locally
Find your nearest Friends of the Earth group and get involved in your own community.
© Havering Friends of the Earth
