A message from Chichester District Council:

Chichester District residents encouraged to recycle as much as possible this Christmas

As Christmas approaches, Chichester District Council is reminding residents of the ways they can keep their waste to a minimum by recycling what they can.

“Waste levels do tend to increase over the Christmas period, so we are eager to encourage residents to recycle as much as possible and help reduce their environmental impact while still enjoying the festive season,” says Councillor Mark Chilton, Cabinet Member for Finance, Corporate Services and Contract Services at Chichester District Council.

“When unwrapping your presents this Christmas, please remember that cardboard boxes; packaging; wrapping paper; Christmas cards; and, envelopes, can all be recycled.”

“The packaging from our favourite festive food and drink products, such as plastic confectionary tubs, plastic food and meat trays, foil mince pie cases, glass bottles and jars, can all be placed in your burgundy recycling bin.

“So that we can recycle as much as possible, you can help by making sure your recycling is clean, so free from food and drink leftovers (a quick rinse off / out will often do); dry, by keep your recycling bin lid shut (wet paper and cardboard cannot be recycled and can stick to other items or clog up the sorting machinery); and, loose, so not tied up in plastic bags.

If you have extra recycling that you can’t fit into your recycling bin, please keep it dry and place it in a loosely tied black sack next to your recycling bin on your collection day. Excess cardboard should be flattened and folded or cut down to a manageable size for a single crew member to handle.

“We also want to highlight and make people aware of items that unfortunately cannot be recycled. These items include: shiny or metallic wrapping paper; bubble wrap; polystyrene; ribbons and bows; and, plastic film and wrapping. If you need to dispose of these, please make sure they are placed in your black waste bin or re-use where possible.”

Residents can dispose of their real Christmas trees by using the St Wilfrid’s Hospice Tree Recycling scheme, which will run from 10–13 January 2025. People must book their collection before 6 January 2025.

“We are pleased to once more help promote St Wilfrid’s Hospice’s Christmas tree recycling scheme following its success over recent years, so that as many Christmas trees are recycled as possible, all while supporting a wonderful local cause,” adds Cllr Chilton. “If you buy a real tree this year, and you’re not signed up to our Garden Recycling Service, please consider using the hospice’s pick-up service and kindly make a donation to the charity. By taking part you’ll be helping to raise vital funds for a local charity close to our hearts and helping reduce your environmental impact this Christmas.”

People can find out about the scheme by visiting stwh.co.uk/events/tree-cycle/ or calling: 01243 775302.

The council is also reminding people that recycling and waste collection dates will be altering over the Christmas period. Residents can view their personal collection dates at: www.chichester.gov.uk/checkyourbinday