Community recycling projects in Scotland divert 73,000 tonnes of
waste away from landfill, a similar amount to that recycled by
Scotland’s best performing local authority.
The annual report by the Community Recycling Network for Scotland,
to be published next week, reveals that Scotland’s 180 community
recycling groups recycle as much waste as Fife Council. The report also
highlights the positive social and economic impact of the sector, in
addition to its significant environmental benefits, with the sector
providing employment to over 1,100 staff, 750 training placements and
over 3200 volunteering opportunities.
The Community Recycling Network for Scotland provides a
one-stop-shop for information and support to existing and emerging
community recyclers in Scotland, and is supported by the Scottish
Executive through the Strategic Waste Fund. Its director, Iain Gulland
said:
“These figures highlight the major contribution that community
recyclers make to meeting National Waste targets. Significantly, the
sector also improves livelihoods and opportunities for people and their
communities through local employment and training provision.”
The recycling sector comprises of recycling groups spread throughout
Scotland. These organisations deal with a wide range of materials
including furniture, wood, IT hardware and bicycles, as well as paper,
glass and textiles. The sector has a turnover of £26m and each group
works with volunteers and others, often marginalised from mainstream
society, stressing the combined social and environmental benefits to be
gained in the process.
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