New Research Shows Wales Is A Nation Of Recyclers

20 June 2011

With the commencement of Recycle Week today, a new survey has shown that more than three quarters (76 percent) of people in Wales are "committed recyclers"

More than nine out of ten (93 percent) of people believe that recycling is important, while 77 percent say that they recycle even if it takes extra effort.

The research also shows that 88 percent of people believe that recycling brings benefits to the local community.

Environment Minister John Griffiths has welcomed the findings and called on people to get involved in Recycle Week activities in their area. He said: "When it comes to recycling, Wales leads the way. This research reiterates the fact that Wales is a nation of recyclers, and that we recognise the economic as well as environmental benefits which recycling brings.

"Recycle Week 2011 is bigger and better than ever, with councils and social enterprises across Wales arranging events and activities illustrating just how easy - and beneficial - recycling can be. I urge people to take this opportunity to find out more about recycling in their area and how they can make the most of their recycling services."

In 2009 - 2010 Wales recycled or composted just under 40 percent of municipal waste; provisional figures for 2010 - 2011 are due to be released on 28 June showing that the country's recycling rate has risen dramatically in recent years.

Recycle Week also marks one year since the launch of Wales' recycling strategy, Towards Zero Waste. Wales' ambition is to recycle 70 percent of all waste by 2025 and be zero waste by 2050.