In less than two hours the UK produces enough waste to fill the Albert Hall, and that’s not including the wrapping paper, decorations and empty bottles generated during the festive season!
With many effective doorstep collection schemes now in place across London Jean said it was quite simple for everyone to make a difference and ensure this festive season is the Greenest ever. Jean commented; “This time of year can be one of the most wasteful seasons but with over 50,000 bottle banks available around the UK, combined with other collection centres, there really is no excuse for Londoners not to reuse and recycle resources.
“As much as 83 km of wrapping paper, that’s enough to cover an area larger than Guernsey, will be sent to the rubbish bin over Christmas so its vital that when unwrapping gifts we remember to recycle as much as possible.
“After a few drinks make sure you recycle your bottles and cans. Just one recycled can saves enough energy to run a TV set for three hours and recycling one bottle will power a 100 watt light bulb for almost 1 hour!
“Climate change grows more serious every day and we simply can not afford to ignore this over the festive season. By thinking before we throw we can all look forward to a greener 2007.”
ENDS
For more information please contact:Morwenna Holland, Media Officertel: 020 7407 6280 or 07813149812 email: media@jeanlambertmep.org.uk www.jeanlambertmep.org.uk
Notes to editors: Jean Lambert: In October 2005 Jean was named MEP 2005 for Justice and Human Rights. Jean was first elected Green Party Member of the European Parliament for London in the 1999 European elections. She was re-elected in 2004. She is one of nine MEPs representing London and one of two UK Green representatives in the European Parliament.