Collection date changes
Recycling and waste collection days will be one day later than normal in the week after Christmas Day. All collections will return to normal from Monday 2 January. Collection date can be checked here: www.n-somerset.gov.uk/calendars
No wrapping paper in recycling
No wrapping paper of any kind can be put out for recycling this year. Wrapping paper is difficult to recycle because there are so many varieties and most are mixed with unrecyclable items such as foil, glitter, ribbon, and tape. Instead please put wrapping paper in the black non-recyclable waste bin. There are lots of eco-friendly alternatives to wrapping paper including brown paper which can be decorated with stamps – this can be recycled with cardboard if the tape is removed.
Cardboard recycling
Each year from the beginning of December we begin to see a rise in cardboard tonnages. To help crews manage this increase in cardboard we ask residents to ensure all cardboard has the tape removed and is presented flattened and folded to the size of a recycling box. We also ask residents to store what they can and put out a little each week if they have excess. This helps crews complete their rounds and collect from each property.
Additional crews will be helping with collections over the festive period so some collections of individual materials such as cardboard or glass may be done using different vehicles and at different times.
Food Waste
Christmas is also a period of high food waste. Last year, we collected 94.25 tonnes more than we would normally. Advice on reducing food waste and some fantastic Christmas recipes can be found at: www.lovefoodhatewaste.com A reminder that food waste for recycling should be wrapped or bagged. Any plastic bag will do, residents do not need to purchase special compostable liners any longer.
Real Christmas Trees
After the festive season residents are being encouraged to donate their real Christmas trees to be repurposed and to benefit one of three local organisations.