Local authorities 'have good recycling record'

Local authorities in the UK have a good record when it comes to recycling, it has been claimed.

According to environmental organisation Waste Watch, the targets set for councils are "unquestionably challenging", but so far most authorities have managed to meet their goals.

Mike Webster, a spokesperson for the organisation, said some councils are now managing to recycle 60 per cent of their waste.

"We believe that as long as councils have the political will, they can continue to improve," he added.

Mr Webster's comments follow the launch of a recent campaign by the plastics industry, aimed at reducing the amount of plastic being sent to landfill sites.

The Plastics 2020 Challenge, which is backed by MPs across all major political parties, is the first time plastics manufacturers have attempted to encourage environmental debate and set their own recycling targets.

Industry spokesman Calum Forsyth said it is important to discuss the issues which surround "one of modern life's essential materials".

Writte by Claire Manning