Exeter University launches Recycle Zone scheme

The ‘Recycle Zone' initiative sees 200 recycling collection points strategically placed around the University's Exeter campuses to encourage students to recycle bottles, cans, paper and card.

The Recycle Zone project is a partnership between CCE, WRAP (the Waste & Resources Action Programme) and plastics recycling charity RECOUP that combines each organisation's expertise and forms part of CCE's wider Keep It Going sustainable packaging programme.

Each ‘Recycle Zone' is funded by CCE for recycling soft drinks packaging, and aims to encourage people to recycle their cans and plastic bottles when they are away from home.

There are currently 90 zones across Great Britain, with plans to open a total of 120 zones by March 2011.

The move follows a survey by Coca-Cola of 3,000 people in June 2010 which suggested that 74% of students said they would recycle more if recycling areas were more readily available in their area.

Alan Tancock, account executive at CCE, said: “Over recent years recycling in the home and at work has become easier and easier. However, recycling options on the streets and in public areas are still few and far between.

“We are committed to reducing the impact of our packaging, and to recycling as much of that packaging as possible. We know that many of our products are consumed whilst ‘on-the-go', and so we are committed to providing convenient recycling solutions that help our consumers become involved in the recycling process.”

University 

The new Recycle Zones are intended to help engage Exeter's students and staff in the recycling process and inspire other colleges and universities to do the same.

To coincide with the launch, guides on recycling have been provided for all students and staff. The new Recycle Zones are a key part of the University's commitment to increase the amount of waste it recovers for recycling and compost by 45% by the end of 2015.

Karen Gallagher, sustainability manager at the University of Exeter, said: “Environmental sustainability is a key focus at The University of Exeter. Our University's research into the causes and consequences of environmental change is world-leading and we are equally committed to making sure that our own activities are sustainable. Participating in the Recycle Zone project will help us to focus on the development of more sustainable waste management practices and improve the quality and quantity of recycling across our Exeter campuses.”

Organisations can request more information about setting up Recycle Zones by visiting http://www.recycle-zone.co.uk/