Seasonal recycling statistics
The amount of wrapping paper estimated to be thrown away in the UK at Christmas could stretch around the equator nine times or to the moon if each sheet was laid end to end.
In the UK approximately 250 tonnes of Christmas trees that could have been recycled are simply thrown out after Christmas. Increasing numbers of local authorities provide either a doorstep collection service or set up local drop-off points where trees are gathered and sent for chipping and composting. The product is a rich biomass that be used as mulch or soil improver. Alternatively, buy a living tree that can be planted in the garden when you’ve finished with it.
An estimated 500 tonnes of Christmas tree lights are discarded in the UK over the Christmas period. Even lights that are beyond repair can be recycled! Check whether your local authority waste collection site will accept them.
Every year the UK throws out an estimated 4,500 tonnes of tin foil over the Christmas period. This is enough to cover around 1500 square miles - roughly the size of Suffolk! You can drop off waste foil at your nearest recycling bank or check on your local authority’s website to see whether your kerbside collection scheme accepts it.
13,350 tonnes of glass is thrown out in the UK during the festive season – from champagne and sherry bottles to mincemeat and cranberry sauce jars. Recycling all of them could save 4,200 tonnes of CO2 equivalent being produced, which is equivalent to taking around 1300 cars off the road for one year or to not taking around 630 around the world flights.
Find out more
Visit the Love Food Hate Waste website for lots more information and tips