I WRITE to thank local residents for all their recycling efforts over the last few years.
The amount of household waste that was recycled in Devon has steadily grown from 2.7% in 1990/1 to over 26% for 2003/4.
From small beginnings in the early 1990s when Devon was designated 'Recycling County' we have grown to be a leading light in this field.
It is vitally important for our environment that we all continue to reduce the amount of waste we produce, re-use it where we can and strive to recycle as much waste as possible.
We must try to consider rubbish more as a resource that can continue to be beneficially recycled, thereby reducing our impact on the Devon countryside and the wider environment.
The Crowndale Recycling Centre at Crowndale Road, Tavistock and the Okehampton Recycling Centre at Exeter Road Industrial Estate, Okehampton are available to householders to recycle plastic bottles,wood, glass, textiles, newspapers, garden waste, cardboard, cans metal (including old domestic appliances), fridges, DIY engine oil, tyres and car batteries.
When visiting the sites, householders should sort recyclable waste into the appropriate areas/containers provided to make the recycling process easier and more effective.
This year, the local recycling centre has a target to recycle over 60% of all waste delivered, therefore it is essential that householders visiting the sites use the recycling facilities to the fullest to ensure that maximum recycling levels can be achieved.
The sites are open seven days per week and the current summer opening times are: Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm; Saturday and Sunday, 10am to 6pm.
With your help, we can go on to recycle even more across the County over the forthcoming years.
Remember, together we can sort it out and make sure we 'Don't Let Devon Go To Waste'.
Cllr David Morrish
Devon County Council Executive Member for Environment