THE recycling rate in Somerset has reached its highest ever level.

Somerset Council says the rate hit an all-time high of 56.4% for 2022/23, according to its Recycling Tracker.

The figures includes more than 17,000 tonnes of glass being recycled, alongside more than 25,000 tonnes of paper and 7.750 tonnes of metals.

Of the total, 96.6% stayed in the UK to be recycled – 54.4% in Somerset – with 6,444 going to landfill – half that in 2021/22.

The news came as Somerset Council launched Recycling Week on Monday (September 19).

Overall, the recycling efforts of Somerset residents meant 125,254 tonnes of carbon was saved – the equivalent of taking 48,175 cars off the road for a year.

During Recycling Week, residents will be encouraged to help recycle and reduce even more by seeking out the hidden recyclables in their home alongside, tips and guidance, the council said.

Cllr Dixie Darch, executive lead member for environment and climate change, said: “The recycling tracker is a valuable tool and shows how committed we are to responsibly processing our waste.

“The increased recycling rate and falling landfill are very positive and show that residents are, like Somerset Council, working hard to make the county greener and more sustainable.”

For more details, see the Somerset Council waste pages at https://www.somerset.gov.uk/bins-recycling-and-waste/recycling-tracker.