Somerset breaks 50% recycling barrier

The county can boast a 51% recycling rate for household waste and says that 92% of that is recycled in the UK.

It is using its success in this area to promote its credentials as a green county and is encouraging companies from the sector to set up shop within its borders.

Rupert Cox, chief executive of Into Somerset, an organsiation set up to attract inward investment into the county, said, “Our fast-growing energy and environmental sector is diverse, but has key strengths, particularly in renewable energy and nuclear power.

“Somerset County Council has been proactive in the development of wind power initiatives and renewables, with a target of 15% of its sub-regional energy to be renewable by 2010.

“These initiatives – as well as our impressive recycling figures – make Somerset a natural home for businesses working with renewable energy, where there is an established network of professional expertise on tap and a robust supply chain.”

Steve Read, managing director of the Somerset Waste Partnership, praised the public for helping local authorities reach the enviable recycling rates.

“Simply, people in Somerset care about their environment and understand the need to build a sustainable future,” he said.

David Gibbs