NOT only are West Devon residents recycling more than 40% of everything from the household, they are also among the top 'committed recyclers' in the country. Questionnaires, which have formed part of recent recycling promotional work, measured recycling behaviour and attitudes in the area. The results show that while the national average for 'committed recyclers' (those who go out of their way to recycle) is 57%. West Devon residents have smashed this figure with an amazing 81%! Cllr Chris Jenkins, chairman of West Devon Borough Council's environment and community committee, said: 'This is a very strong foundation on which to build a sustainable waste and recycling programme. 'But let us not forget that household waste and recycling still only accounts for about 10% of the total and society needs to be looking at ways of diverting more business waste to recycling and waste to energy plants.' Andrew Barron, the council's recycling education officer, said: 'Our residents really appreciate the beautiful area they live in and will do whatever they can to protect it along with the wider environment. 'We are privileged to have such enthusiastic recyclers.'
