Residents across Cornwall can now recycle the majority of plastics: pots, tubs and trays have been added to Cornwall Council recycling services.

Following a successful trial across 46,000 households which saw recycling rates increase, the programme has been rolled out across the whole of Cornwall in six stages, with West Penwith the last area to come on board.

By November 11, all Cornwall households will have had at least one collection of plastic pots, tubs and trays.

Councillor Sue James, cabinet member for environment and public protection, said the programme was a significant step forward in increasing recycling rates across Cornwall: ‘This is something that residents have been asking for and which we have received good feedback on.

‘Even more importantly, it will help us meet our longer term target to reduce waste and increase recycling, and it is good for the environment.

‘All the plastics collected are sent to a materials recycling facility at either Bodmin or Pool and are then sent on to UK re-processing plants where they can be made into other products such as furniture, drainage pipes or fleeces.’

Tips for recycling tips for pots, tubs and trays

Pots, tubs and trays go in the same bag as  plastic bottles.

Unfortunately black plastic cannot currently be recycled as the machinery that sorts the plastic by colour cannot see black.

Please  rinse and squash  pots, tubs and trays before putting them out for recycling.

If you haven’t already been recycling, containers are available free. You can order online or by phoning 0300 1234 141.