Zero Waste Scotland teams up with local authorities to help residents prepare for a New Year clear out
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2020 may have been a year like no other but the traditional post-festive season clear out is one thing we can be sure to expect in early 2021.
Zero Waste Scotland is supporting local authorities across Scotland as they gear up for a post-festive season rush by offering tips and advice for people to help them get rid of the empty boxes, wrapping paper and food and drink containers that accumulate following the Christmas and New Year festivities.
Scots are expected to have used upwards of 19,000 miles of wrapping paper this Christmas – enough to wrap the coast of mainland Scotland more than two and a half times, according to charity WRAP.
A poll, carried out by Survation1, for Zero Waste Scotland found over two thirds (69%) of respondents plan on recycling wrapping paper from opened presents.
Here are some tips for tackling post-festive season waste:
Always check online before you intend using recycling services or centres
Think about the environment – make a plan and think about where your waste can go.
Ask for help – but don’t take up offers of cheap disposal, it could lead to others flytipping your items. Always ask to see a waste carriers license. Flytipping includes leaving items beside street bins, bottle banks or clothing banks and outside closed charity shops
Make the most of your local recycling services – check online to see what your recycling centre accepts and sort your materials before you leave, so as much as possible can be recycled
Check your local authority website - to see opening hours, rules for access and availability slots
Can small electrical goods be recycled? – household items such as kettles, vacuum cleaners, toasters and hairdryers can often be reused. Most recycling centres have specific facilities to drop off small electricals
Stay safe – if you or a member of your household are showing symptoms of coronavirus, stay at home and be sure to double-bag waste and store it for 72 hours before putting it in your general waste bin.
Zero Waste Scotland chief executive Iain Gulland, said: “Once the wrapping paper is ripped off presents and packaging discarded in excitement, we need to start thinking about what to do with it.
“Some council bin collection services may have been operating at a reduced level over the festive period and there may also be delays in some areas due to adverse weather conditions. This can contribute to more people having to find space within their homes for recyclable waste and could lead to longer queues at Household Waste and Recycling Centres.
“By planning ahead and organising recyclable waste beforehand, people can save time and help keep centres operating smoothly.”
It is important that people check with their local authorities, as each one has its own procedures and processes for handling waste.
For example, some may require identification or proof of address to access Household Waste and Recycling Centres.
Others may require pre-booking, specifically from people with larger vehicles and trailers.
