UK runs pilot scheme to reward for recycling

The first pilot scheme of its kind in the UK has been launched to reward households for recycling mixed waste. Those who live in the areas of Windsor and Maidenhead will be able to collect up to £130 (US $216) in vouchers which they can spend in shops, restaurants or at attractions if they correctly use the large blue bin provided.The RecycleBank scheme makes recycling much easier for residents as they can place all recyclable items such as paper, cardboard, plastic, glass and metal in the same bin. The greater the amount they recycle the greater their reward.The UK has a long way to go before it meets the recycling rates of other European countries and this scheme aims to find a way to rectify this problem. Local authorities have been under pressure to meet targets and mixed recycling could provide an easier way to get residents on board.The scheme is being run by RecycleBank, Veolia Environmental Services and the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead.Counselor Liam Maxwell, the Royal Borough's Cabinet Member for Sustainability, says, 'We are making recycling much easier and rewarding our residents to maximize participation and reduce landfill. The appetite to recycle more is clearly there and using the carrot, not the stick, is our way of energising the community and bringing meaningful benefits to households and local businesses. The RecycleBankscheme is a pioneering step forward. We are proud to be the first in the UK and hope that other local authorities will follow our approach across the country.'More recycling collection