2004 press releases

A HAPPY CHRISTMAS MEANS A RUBBISH NEW YEAR

As festive decorations are taken down across Britain today, the Liberal Democrats are highlighting how the inadequate extent of recycling in Britain will leave mountains of Christmas waste.

Figures obtained by Norman Baker MP, Liberal Democrat Shadow Environment Secretary, reveal that Britain is facing huge amounts of environmentally damaging rubbish this year with Christmas cards, wrapping paper and Christmas trees all being thrown out.

Figures from 2003 reveal:

• Over 5.25 million trees were incinerated or buried in landfill sites across the country instead of being recycled; and
• Just 4% of the 1 billion Christmas cards sent were recycled

Norman Baker said:

"Once again Britain is facing mountains of waste after Christmas and yet again the Government has done nothing to improve its plans for recycling.

"'Burn and bury Britain' must stop now. The Government must put together plans for a nationwide doorstep-recycling programme. People want to see a massive increase in recycling, re-use and waste minimisation and a reduction in landfill.

"Britain is near the bottom of the EU recycling league table. The Government must make a New Year's resolution to improve recycling."

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