New figures have revealed a significant drop in the amount of waste collected across Bath and North East Somerset being sent to landfill.
Photo © B&NES Council
Thanks to record-breaking recycling efforts from residents, just 3% of waste was sent to landfill in 2020/21, down from 15% the previous year.
Councillor David Wood, Bath & North East Somerset Council’s cabinet member for Neighbourhood Services, said: “This really is a phenomenal achievement, and the figures show our residents take environmental issues seriously.
“We should be very proud of the work being done across the district to reuse and recycle – and that includes the efforts of our waste teams who do a great job.”
“However, our ultimate aim is to waste nothing and we will continue to support people to reduce their waste; sharing tips on the small steps that can be taken to save resources and ultimately save our environment.”
Bath and North East Somerset achieved a 59.2% Reuse, Recycling and Composting rate last year.
The amount of recycling collected from green boxes and blue bags in the district increased by almost 22%, and food waste was up by 15%.
Councillor Sarah Warren, Deputy Leader and cabinet member for Climate and Sustainable Travel said: “I’m really encouraged by the huge strides we have made to divert waste from landfill, residents have really embraced the reduce, reuse, recycle and compost message and I applaud them for their efforts.
“Burying our rubbish results in the release of greenhouse gases which contribute to global warming so it really should be a last resort.
“Our aim is to send nothing to landfill. It is achievable and I’d encourage everyone to do their bit to help us reach our goal.”
